Every year, the original twelve Parties to the Antarctic Treaty, along with other Parties demonstrating their commitment to Antarctica through substantial research activity, come together for the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM). This gathering serves as a platform for exchanging information, consulting on matters of mutual interest related to Antarctica, developing, and recommending measures to their respective governments in alignment with the principles and objectives of the Antarctic Treaty.  

 

The meeting brings together representatives from various groups, including: 

- The Consultative Parties 

- The Non-Consultative Parties 

- Observers, such as the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR), the  Commission for the Conservation  of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), and the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (COMNAP) 

- Invited Experts, including the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) and the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) 

 

During the ATCM, consensus is reached on Measures, Decisions, and Resolutions. These instruments serve to implement the principles of the Antarctic Treaty and the Environment Protocol, providing regulations and guidelines for the management of the Antarctic Treaty area and the work of the ATCM. Decisions focus on ATCM's internal workings and Resolutions offer encouragement without legal binding on Contracting Parties. In contrast, Measures carry legal weight for Consultative Parties once they have been approved by all the Consultative Parties. 

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While only the Consultative Parties participate in decision-making, other participants can contribute to discussions. The Committee for Environmental Protection (CEP) was established with the entry into force of the Environment Protocol in 1998. The CEP typically convenes alongside the ATCM to address environmental protection and management matters and provide advice to the ATCM. 

 

In 2013, the ATCM outlined a strategic work plan spanning multiple year. This plan, originating from Decision 3 (2012), undergoes yearly updates, guiding the ATCM's focus on crucial matters and timely concerns. It enhances the ATCM's efficiency, ensuring timely and prioritized action, and organizing its schedule appropriately.  

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From 1961 to 1994, the ATCM took place biennially, but since 1994, it has become an annual event. The hosting of the ATCM rotates among the Consultative Parties based on the alphabetical order. 

 

The 46 ATCM and 26 CEP will be held at the Lulu Bolgatty International Convention Centre in Kochi, India, from May 20th to May 30th, 2024. 

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