Antarctic Cities. Volume 4, Principles for Antarctic Connectivity

Principles for Antarctic Connectivity brings together the values associated with the Antarctic Treaty System in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It is an initiative to bring together cities together in ways that outline a common vision, narrative and priorities. Antarctica is one of four internationally recognized global commons along with the atmosphere, the high seas and outer space. These are all areas that have historically been guided by the principle of the common heritage of humankind. However, there is no comprehensive charter of principles for Antarctic engagement. The present charter 'Principles for Antarctic Connectivity' seeks to provide such a set of guidelines. The continent is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, a complex set of arrangements developed to regulate relations between states with interests and territorial claims in the region. There are five main articles to the treaty that have a principle-like quality (see Appendix 1 for a summary of all the articles): 1. No military use shall be made of Antarctica, though military personnel and equipment may be used for peaceful purposes. 2. There will be complete freedom of scientific investigation. 3. Antarctic Treaty Nations will exchange plans for their scientific programmes. Scientific data will be freely available and scientists will be exchanged between expeditions where practical. 4. All territorial claims are put aside for the duration of the Treaty. No activities under the Treaty will affect claims to sovereignty of any part of Antarctica made by any nation. 5. Nuclear explosions and nuclear waste disposal are banned from Antarctica. As of today, 29 states are 'consultative parties' to the Treaty. They demonstrate their interest in Antarctica by carrying out substantial scientific activity there. The Treaty articles are geographically directed towards activities in Antarctica. This charter, by comparison, is not geographically contained but pertains to all activities that have a bearing on the Antarctic region.