After thirty-five years the regime based on the Antarctic Treaty is more vigorous than ever. Here leading scholars of international law and international relations examine the effectiveness and legitimacy of this regime by asking two questions: are current changes affecting the regime's ability to cope with major problems in the region, and how do those changes affect its standing amongst parties to the Treaty and in the wider international community? Individual chapters deal with the Antarctic regimes for marine living resources, mineral activities, environmental protection, and tourism. Throughout, a keen eye is kept on how those components interact and reinforce each other. This analysis is supported by in-depth studies of compatibility and tension between the Antarctic Treaty System and the international community at large. It also draws upon case studies of how domestic concerns and decision-making in four selected countries affect international co-operation in the Antarctic.

"Governing the Antarctic is a very ambitious work, which demonstrates careful planning by the editors and project team in bringing together a coordinated collection of essays....the book is very well written and is the product of very thorough scholarship by all participants." Donald R. Rothwell, The American Journal of International Law
"...this book would make a valuable addition to the library of any serious student of the seventh continent." Tom Cioppa, Journal of Environment & Development