Draft law enhances polar activities, security in Antarctica

Chinese lawmakers are reviewing a draft law related to environmental protection activities in Antarctica, as the nation accelerates its efforts to enhance national polar capacity building and engage in global security governance of the continent.

The draft, comprising seven chapters and 57 articles, was submitted on Monday to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, for the first reading.

Antarctica remains the only continent without a clearly defined sovereign claim, primarily governed by international mechanisms such as the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting. The international governance of Antarctica largely depends on each country's capabilities in Antarctic activities and its influence in establishing international legal frameworks and behavioral norms.

Taking into account the requirements of international treaties and specific needs of managing China's Antarctic activities, the draft outlines regulations for expeditions, fisheries, tourism and shipping on the continent.

It applies to Chinese citizens conducting these activities, as well as to foreign individuals who organize Antarctic activities within China's territorial jurisdiction or embark on Antarctic expeditions from China.

The draft proposes that Antarctic activities should adhere to the principles of peaceful utilization, environmental protection, resource conservation, scientific and technological support, and international cooperation to safeguard the common interests of humanity.

The draft specifies that, except for scientific research or other peaceful purposes, implementing military-related measures in Antarctica is prohibited. Similarly, activities related to mineral resources are not allowed, except for scientific research purposes.

The country encourages the development of Antarctic endeavors, promotes carrying out Antarctic activities in a green and low-carbon manner and supports basic research and technological innovation in the region, it said.