Question
Here is the question : WHAT COUNTRY HOLDS THE LARGEST CLAIM TO TERRITORIES IN ANTARCTICA?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- France
- United Kingdom
- Chile
- Australia
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Australia, which is one of Antarctica’s closest territorial neighbors, has a formal claim to almost forty percent of the landmass of the icy continent. Australia, Argentina, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom are the only countries that are permitted to have any sort of claim to the continent of Antarctica in accordance with the Antarctic Treaty of 1961. Even though there is still a portion of Marie Byrd Land that has not been claimed, which accounts for around 10 percent of the island, no new claims can be made without first obtaining an exception to the Treaty. The territory is one of the few places left on Earth that has not been claimed by anyone, and it is solely governed by the Penguin King.
Australia claims the largest amount of territory in Antarctica. Called Australian Antarctic Territory, this claim covers roughly 42% of Antarctica’s continent. Australia established its claim in 1911, before many other nations staked their claims. It has maintained a continuous human presence in Antarctica since then through various scientific research stations.
Australia’s claim is centered around the continent and includes the Australian Antarctic Expedition hut, oldest surviving building in Antarctica. It is a strategic claim, controlling land surrounding the coastline southward of Australia. However, Australia’s control remains in dispute due to overlapping claims with other nations like New Zealand, France and the United Kingdom. Tensions have arisen at times over territorial control, resource access or construction of military bases.
cooperation between countries with Antarctic interests prevails through the Antarctic Treaty System. Signed in 1959, the Antarctic Treaty aims to ensure Antarctica remains used only for peaceful purposes, such as scientific research cooperation and environmental protection. It established Antarctica as common heritage of humankind. However, territorial claims technically remain unresolved, with countries continuing rivalries for potential access to natural resources or strategic advantages.
Australia maintains a strong scientific research presence in its claimed territory. Over 60 people stay continuously at research stations studying biology, geology, astronomy, climate science and more. Australia has made notable discoveries, like continent’s coldest place on the ridge between Dome A and Dome C or deepest known cave shaft. Research is critical for guiding policy on environmental protection, tourism regulation and ensuring scientific knowledge benefits all humankind.
Australia’s strategic location between Antarctica and Asia Pacific region influences its interests. Access to natural resources surrounding Antarctica safeguards energy and food security. Environmental protection and climate change concerns prompt investment in research. Tourism is also an emerging industry, with over 40,000 Australians visiting Antarctica each year for adventure or educational experiences. However, military use of territory remains controversial, despite strategic advantages.
Australia has a compelling economic, scientific and cultural stake in Antarctica that shapes its approach. Still, there is public debate on costs versus benefits of maintaining a presence and level of claim. Some argue funds would be better spent addressing domestic challenges than running a “designer wilderness”. However, most see Antarctic engagement as integral to Australia’s identity as an ambitious, progressive nation on the global stage. Antarctic success demonstrates technological prowess, environmental ethos and ability to think beyond national borders.
Australia’s complex and somewhat contradictory relationship wi