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Despite the fervor surrounding these claims, Antarctica itself is governed by the Antarctic Treaty, signed by 12 nations in 1959. This treaty emphasizes peaceful use and scientific investigation over national sovereignty. Article 4 specifically prohibits new claims on land and prevents the expansion of existing claims. However, it does reserve the rights of the United States and Russia to make claims — a situation that poses challenges, particularly as the treaty's provisions may come under scrutiny when it comes up for review in 2048.
As it stands, few countries recognize the territorial claims put forth by Britain, Argentina, or Chile, which suggests that the landscape could shift dramatically depending on decisions made when the treaty is up for review.