Defrontação científica e o Regime Antártico

The Antarctic Treaty establishes the peaceful use of the region, freedom of research, and international cooperation as the foundations of the Antarctic System. Science is the cornerstone of this tripartite regime. This article uses the Brazilian Antarctic Programme (PROANTAR) as a case study to test the premise that scientific development is the main driver of activities carried out on the polar continent. The adopted theoretical basis starts from the concepts of 'regime' and 'governance', crosses international relations paradigms, and discusses the concept of 'science diplomacy', considering the experience of international communities of practice. The concept of ‘scientific confrontation’ is introduced, revealing remaining ambiguities in the regime. The article is structured into three main sections. The first section presents the historical development of the Antarctic System and the main rules and institutions that comprise this regime today. The second section analyses the Brazilian state's engagement with the region, emphasising the programme's 40-year history. It critically addresses the irregularity of investments, the asymmetrical participation of women and the scarcity of social science research and university funding in the north and northeast. The final section discusses interests and dynamics within the Antarctic System that could threaten its scientific focus. It highlights issues of power asymmetry, territory, militarisation, the use of mineral resources, and environmental concerns. The article offers reflections on key governance issues for the continent and could inform future revisions to the regime.