What makes Antarctica a global symbol of peace and cooperation? The Antarctic Treaty was signed on December 1, 1959 by 12 nations to ensure Antarctica remains dedicated to peaceful purposes and international scientific cooperation.

Today, 58 countries are signatories to the Treaty — showing how global collaboration has expanded over decades.

Because of the Treaty, Antarctica is protected from military activity and open to shared scientific research, offering one of the world’s strongest examples of international cooperation for the benefit of all humankind.
The Antarctic Treaty is more than an agreement—it is a model for international cooperation.