Paper short abstract:

What can China's continuing infrastructural expansion on the Ice tell us about how different states (in the roles of established, emerging, and aspiring leaders) interact in the global commons that is Antarctica?

Paper long abstract:

The Chinese presence is becoming increasingly conspicuous in Antarctica. With four established bases and plans for further bases on the continent, China appears intent to become a leader on the ice. A full consultative party (CP) since 1985, China has, within a relatively short amount of time, become an Antarctic Treaty (AT) member that seems especially eager to grow and consolidate its presence on the ice. China's Antarctic engagement appears to reflect its general foreign policy and economic intentions (i.e. economic expansion and growth of socio- or geopolitical presence and resulting power). This critical review explores China's history, developments, and ambitions in the global commons environment that is Antarctica. I argue that developments are indicative of an international development towards militarization and spatial expansion in Antarctica, in the context of 'the Asian century'. In terms of international cooperation and co-existence in Antarctica, China's scramble for increased presence and geopolitical reach could lead to increasing suspicion and tension among Treaty members and an elevated need for the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) to monitor, secure, and govern international adherence to its basic principles and ambitions.

Key words: China, Global South, Asian Century, Antarctica, geopolitics, Antarctic Treaty System.