Who owns Antarctica? The territorial tug of war for a cold desert

Antarctica might seem like a land of snow, ice, and nothing else, but it's a continent packed with heated territorial disputes—despite being completely uninhabitable. Here's the thing: No one technically owns it. But that doesn’t stop countries from trying to claim it.

The icy continent is governed by the 1959 Antarctic Treaty. The treaty turns the continent into a peaceful zone, mostly used for science, and promotes cooperation among nations. So, while no one has any legitimate claim, seven countries still decided to throw their hats in the ring.

France, the United Kingdom, Chile, Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand—all claim parts of Antarctica. Norway claims two separate areas. All these countries are also parties to the Antarctic Treaty.

Over the years, scientific and tourist expeditions have become the norm in Antarctica. Luxury cruises have also become a common sight in Antarctica.

During the 20th century, several countries set up research stations on the continent. These scientific outposts were set up the claiming countries and some that sought no land.

The treaty has kept things relatively peaceful since 1961, with 46 countries signing on. The agreement blocks military activity and bans territorial claims. But here's the catch: it doesn’t say anything about the continental shelf, that area beneath the ice. You know, the one rich in resources that could be useful to countries wanting a piece of Antarctica.

In January 2025, Chile’s president, Gabriel Boric, made a historic trip to the South Pole to boldly reassert his country's claim. Other leaders, like former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark and Norwegian PM Jens Stoltenberg, have done the same before. Despite these claims, the United States and many others don’t recognize these territorial stances.

So, who owns Antarctica? Right now, no one. For now, it's a cold conflict.