The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the end of Antarctic exceptionalism.

 The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on Antarctica, challenging the notion of Antarctic exceptionalism and showcasing the interconnectedness of the region with the rest of the world. This unprecedented global health crisis disrupted Antarctic operations, particularly in the science and tourism sectors, and raised questions about the effectiveness of Antarctic governance systems. While Antarctica had initially been seen as a last bastion free of the virus, the arrival of SARS-CoV-2 in the region highlighted the vulnerability of even the most remote places on Earth.

The paper explores how the pandemic unfolded in Antarctica, affecting decision-making processes and responses within the scientific and tourism sectors. It also delves into the implications of the pandemic on Antarctic governance, highlighting the need for coordination and collaboration to address the challenges posed by the crisis. The Antarctic Treaty System, which governs international relations in Antarctica, faced unprecedented disruptions due to the pandemic, leading to cancellations of important meetings and challenges in decision-making processes.

The text emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in managing the impacts of the pandemic on Antarctic operations. It discusses the responses of various countries with Antarctic programs and the measures taken to prevent or manage COVID-19 infections in the region. The disruptions caused by the pandemic have led to delays in scientific research, cancellations of fieldwork, and challenges in logistics and operations in Antarctica. The paper also highlights the mental health challenges faced by researchers, particularly early-career scientists, due to the pandemic's impact on their work and career prospects.

Geopolitical factors, such as broader geopolitical shifts and increasing national protectionism, have further complicated Antarctic governance during the pandemic. The text discusses the influence of geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to Russia, Ukraine, China, and the United States, on Antarctic operations and decision-making processes. The rise in protectionist attitudes and rebordering strategies globally has also affected international cooperation in the region, posing challenges to the collaborative nature of Antarctic science and governance.

Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the interconnectedness of Antarctica with the global community and the need for a more integrated approach to address the challenges facing the region. The pandemic has underscored the importance of adapting to evolving global dynamics and the necessity of strengthening international cooperation in Antarctic research and governance. The paper concludes that Antarctic exceptionalism is waning in the face of increasing geopolitical tensions and protectionist attitudes, signaling a shift towards a more interconnected and complex Antarctic landscape in the early Anthropocene.

[Source: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk4424]