Scientific research and collaboration in Antarctica: Türkiye's engagement from a science diplomacy perspective

Abstract

The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most affected regions by global climate change, requiring a multinational and collaborative effort of concerted actions guided by scientific principles. Science diplomacy has been embraced by policymakers and various stakeholders as a promising approach in international and global politics to tackle this issue and manage Antarctica's governance peacefully through science and diplomacy. The Antarctic Treaty System has been accepted as a model for international cooperation among the countries interested in Antarctic science and governance for many years. However, with the profound changes in the Antarctic Peninsula landscape in recent years due to global climate change, an increasing number of nations with various motivations have been more eager to secure a place at the table regarding the governance of Antarctica, which has become a vital agenda. Scientific research and collaboration have been among the most effective ways for most countries to show their presence in/for the region. This study aims to emphasize the increasing importance of Antarctica from a Science Diplomacy perspective and discuss Türkiye's recent policies and initiatives as an emerging market economy and a potential model for developing countries to engage in scientific research and collaboration in Antarctica from the same perspective.