The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM)

The Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) is the mechanism established by the Antarctic Treaty to ensure the smooth operation of the Treaty and its ability to adjust to changing circumstances.

The United States will host the 32^nd Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Baltimore, Maryland, April 6-17, 2009. The ATCM is the major annual diplomatic event related to Antarctica, and will include the participation of nearly 400 diplomats, Antarctic program managers and logistics experts, and polar scientists from 47 countries, including 28 Consutative Parties with a scientific presence in Antarctica. Also attending will be representatives from other entities comprising the Antarctic Treaty system and observers from several non-governmental organizations. The Parties will discuss issues including environmental protection, the advancement of science, and the management of tourism.

The Baltimore ATCM occurs as the Antarctic Treaty marks its 50^th anniversary. The Treaty, which was signed in Washington, promotes international and scientific cooperation. The 2009 Meeting coincides also with the conclusion of IPY - the most ambitious multinational, interdisciplinary polar research effort ever undertaken. The Meeting thus offers a unique opportunity for Parties–and the public–to reflect on the theme of "Fifty Years of Peace and Science" in Antarctica. In addition to celebrating achievements under the Treaty, the 32^nd ATCM will provide a forum for Parties to look ahead and discuss a future agenda for Antarctic collaboration. 

The Meeting will be adressed by the chair of the Arctic Council, Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Jonas Gahr Støre, on behalf of the Arctic Council.