Antarctica and AU Today
An orientation
for students
Antarctica is the coldest, driest, windiest, remotest, and highest (on average) continent. AU has been involved continuously in Antarctic projects for over 40 years. Other countries have jointly run programs in Antarctica as well, with the objectives of achieving a presence in our forbidding land, science, and stewardship of this place. Nationalism and prestige drives nations to be involved in participation in activities here.
Antarctica is a peaceful territory, free of national claims and available for the benefit of all humankind. The Antarctic Treaty system has created a political environment in Antarctica that today is largely characterized by cooperation and mutual understanding. Nonetheless, seven nations have made claims to parts of Antarctica, some overlapping, and potential disagreements remain an underlying reality. In the end, Antarctica's natives may be involved in the crossfire of these nations should they ever attempt to enforce their claims. AU's stated policy is to de-escalate any situation that may arise. AU is a critical, perhaps the most critical, element in assuring the region's continued political stability. In addition, working in cooperation with many nations, the AU plays an important role in preserving a fragile and nearly pristine ecological system which serves as an indicator of future environmental trends throughout the planet. See the most amazing views of the Aurora Australis, something that only happens in Antarctica, here.