Antarctica is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, a 1959 agreement between the 12 original signatory nations: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, the Soviet Union (now Russia), the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Under the Antarctic Treaty System, no one nation controls Antarctica. Instead, it is a demilitarized zone where signatory nations pledge to cooperate on scientific research, environmental protection, and other matters of mutual concern. The Antarctic Treaty System also ensures that Antarctica remains a peaceful continent, prohibiting any military activity on the continent, including the establishment of military bases and testing of any type of weapons. The signatory nations are all considered to be the de facto “governors” of Antarctica. They are responsible for setting and enforcing the regulations that govern the continent. They also manage and coordinate scientific research efforts, set conservation and environmental protection policies, and monitor compliance with the Antarctic Treaty System. In addition, the signatory nations are responsible for the management of fisheries, mineral exploration, and tourism in Antarctica. All activities must be conducted in accordance with the regulations of the Antarctic Treaty System.
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