Crisis Debate 

A background briefing for the Crisis debate can be found here.   

The current situation

Russia and China both operate 12 stations in total in Antarctica, with 8 being operational for all 12 months of the year (5🇷🇺, 3🇨🇳). In the past these stations have been used for the sole purposes of scientific research, at least it seemed. 

Hints of a secretive operation have emerged after environmental researchers in Antarctica stumbled upon what appears to be a secret joint military base under construction by China and Russia. The site, hidden deep within an isolated region of the continent at Vostok, was detected when drones used for wildlife monitoring captured images of heavy machinery and unusual activity. Although no official statements have been made, analysis of the infrastructure suggests capabilities for housing troops, advanced surveillance systems, and even exploratory mining equipment. The discovery has sent shock waves through scientific and diplomatic communities, as it constitutes a stark violation of the Antarctic Treaty of 1959. 

While the governments involved remain silent, speculation grows that the operation aims to establish the first military base on the continent and secure access to untapped natural resources beneath the ice, including rare minerals and oil deposits. The revelation has sparked a covert scramble among other nations to determine the extent of the activities, while environmentalists warn of catastrophic consequences for the fragile ecosystem. Tensions are mounting as global powers face the unsettling prospect of military competition in what was once the world's last demilitarised frontier.

At the moment no retaliatory steps have been taken as the situation is being investigated by all stakeholders, but this may take time. As the ecological ramifications of this activity also begin to be considered, nations around the world are scrambling to figure out how to ensure that the Earth’s last pristine landscape is not exploited for its abundant natural resources. While speculation is rampant, it would be wise to avoid drastic steps until more facts are established, especially as both of the accused nations are ‘innocent until proven guilty’ under the eyes of international law.

Some possible issues to consider

• Russia has reserved the right to make territorial claims in the future. 

• As the balance of power shifts ever towards the global south, the initial signatories of the treaty (European powers and the US) may find it more difficult to enforce the terms. 

• As global warming comes more into effect, the poles will become more and more habitable for humans. 

• Resources like oil, natural gas and gold have been proven to be in the Antarctic, and as these resources get more and more scarce in other areas, some countries may have their eyes on the protected land. 

• Some signatories may have a conflict of interest, staking a claim to land whilst also respecting the treaty (so far), e.g the UK. 

Resolutions on the Crisis should be submitted to the folder on Google Drive here no later than 9.00am on Saturday 18th January.  All submissions should be clearly identified using the format of: Delegate Name, School, Country

For instance: Alex Smith, St Paul’s, Syria.