The Antarctic Treaty, 1959

The Treaty was made on 1 December 1959 and came into force on 23 June 1961.

Article 1 - Peaceful purposes
Article 2 - Freedom of scientific investigation
Article 3 - International scientific cooperation
Article 4 - Territorial sovereignty
Article 5 - Nuclear activity
Article 6 - Geographical coverage
Article 7 - Inspections
Article 8 - Jurisdiction
Article 9 - Treaty Meetings
Article 10 - Activities contrary to Treaty
Article 11 - Disputes between Parties
Article 12 - Modification and duration
Article 13 - Ratification and entry into force
Article 14 - Deposition

Download the full text of the Antarctic Treaty

Full text of the Antarctic Treaty

Preamble

The Governments of Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, the French Republic, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Union of South Africa, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the United States of America,

Recognizing that it is in the interest of all mankind that Antarctica shall continue for ever to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and shall not become the scene or object of international discord;

Acknowledging the substantial contributions to scientific knowledge resulting from international cooperation in scientific investigation in Antarctica;

Convinced that the establishment of a firm foundation for the continuation and development of such cooperation on the basis of freedom of scientific investigation in Antarctica as applied during the International Geophysical Year accords with the interests of science and the progress of all mankind;

Convinced also that a treaty ensuring the use of Antarctica for peaceful purposes only and the continuance of international harmony in Antarctica will further the purposes and principles embodied in the Charter of the United Nations;

Have agreed as follows: