When most people think of strange or obscure laws, their minds turn to ancient by-laws about walking sheep through towns or rules about what you can wear on a Sunday. But one of the most overlooked, and arguably oddest, legal jurisdictions on Earth is also one of its coldest: Antarctica.
Yes, there are laws that govern the Antarctic and they’re more detailed than you might expect.
Antarctica Has Its Own Legal Framework?
It does, particularly if you’re a UK national or involved in a British expedition. Under the Antarctic Act 1994, the UK has implemented legal obligations under the Antarctic Treaty System to regulate human activity in the region.
Section 1 of the Act defines “Antarctica” as not just the icy continent itself, but all islands south of 60° South latitude, along with the associated sea and airspace.
You Need a Permit Just to Be There
Under Part II of the Act, you need a permit simply to enter or remain in Antarctica. This isn’t just a bureaucratic hurdle; it’s about environmental protection. The Antarctic ecosystem is fragile, and these laws are designed to control the human impact on the continent.
Step Into a Restricted Zone? That’s a Crime
Section 9 of the Act takes things up a notch. It states that no UK national or person on a British expedition may enter a designated “restricted area” in Antarctica without authorisation. Breach of this? It’s a criminal offence.
Restricted areas include environmentally sensitive sites, scientific zones, and heritage landmarks. The list of such sites isn’t static either – it gets updated.
Which brings us to the present.
Changes Incoming: 2024 Amendments to the Antarctic Regulations
On 11 June 2025, the Antarctic Regulations 2024 were amended, with changes set to come into force on 16 July 2025. These updates include additions and deletions of sites, monuments, and areas from the list of restricted areas.
This means areas that were previously off-limits may now be accessible and vice versa. If you’re planning a research expedition, this matters.
The Curious Case of “Written Communications”
One of the quirkiest aspects of these regulations? The Antarctic Regulations 1995 define “in writing” as communication via telex, fax, or similar instantaneous means that produce a document. By that logic, in 2025, this definition might reasonably extend to WhatsApp or other instant messaging services, provided the communication creates a record.
It’s a delightful example of how law evolves more slowly than technology, and how 1990s regulatory language is still relevant, and binding, today.
Got a legal problem that doesn’t involve snowmobiles or telex machines?
Get in touch with White Collar Legal. We’ll give you practical, down-to-earth advice, no thermal gear required.
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