Towards an Antarctic security and defense forum

Abstract

ABSTRACT As earth’s lone uninhabited and ungoverned continent, Antarctica contains 70% of all fresh water on the planet in addition to a potential treasure trove of yet undiscovered natural and biological resources1. It is peripherally relevant geographically but centrally relevant geopolitically. The southernmost continent is the final frontier of 21st century strategic competition; a resource-rich region ripe for territorial expansion opportunities that may yield economic and even military advantage for those states best positioned to capitalise on its vulnerability. To avoid Antarctica devolving into a militarised continent plagued by conflict and resource wars, the international community must establish an Antarctic Security and Defense Forum (ASDF). The ASDF will address these challenges through coordinated global governance initiatives leveraging the longstanding institutional strength of the Antarctic Treaty and offering supplemental dialogue specific to military issues to confront the challenge rather than look the other way. This article examines the leading geostrategic issues for Antarctica, then it tables a blueprint for a viable Antarctic Security and Defence Forum.