Press Releases
The 48th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM48)
Japan will host the 48th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM 48) in Hiroshima from May 11 to 21. This marks the first time in 32 years, since 1994, that ATCM is held in Japan.
As an original signatory and a consultative party to the Antarctic Treaty, Japan has actively contributed to discussions on Antarctica. At this upcoming meeting, we will consult on issues such as the transparency of activities in Antarctica, responses to the recent surge in Antarctic tourism, and the impacts of climate change on the Antarctic region. Our goal is to further strengthen the future-looking Antarctic Treaty system.
(Reference1) Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM)
Parties that are conducting substantial scientific research activities in Antarctica are called Consultative Parties (29 Parties). At the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM), discussions take place on the peaceful use of Antarctica, promotion of scientific research, and the protection of Antarctic environment (once a year). The meeting is hosted by each consultative party on a rotating basis. The Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) is convened on the sidelines of the ATCM in accordance with the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty.
(Reference2) The Antarctic Treaty
- The Treaty was adopted by 12 countries including Japan in 1959, entering into force in 1961 (Japan is one of the original signatories).
- As of April 2026, the number of Parties is 58.
- The Antarctic Treaty applies to the area south of 60 degrees South Latitude. The Treaty contains the following principal provisions:
- Peaceful use of Antarctica (including prohibition on establishing military bases and carrying out military maneuvers) (Article 1)
- Freedom of scientific investigation and promotion of international cooperation (Articles 2 and 3)
- Freeze of territorial claims (Article 4)
- Prohibition on nuclear testing and radioactive waste disposal (Article 5)