On 30 March 2026, Uruguay participated in the virtual panel "Latin America and Antarctica: History and Politics between the Second World War and the Antarctic Treaty (1945–1959)".
This high-level academic meeting was organised by the Centre for Latin American Studies at the Ohio State University (OSU). The event was co-sponsored by the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Centre (OSU), Native Antarcticans, the University of Chile, and the University of São Paulo. Furthermore, it featured the strategic collaboration of the national committees of APECS (Association of Polar Early Career Scientists) from Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Uruguay.
Uruguayan representation was led by researcher and Professor Waldemar Fontes, who, in addition to his teaching and military career, is a member of the National Committee of APECS Uruguay.
Under the title "Between Geopolitical Thinking and some Political omissions: Uruguay and the Antarctic Struggle (1945–1959)", Prof. Fontes presented little-known and fundamental data for understanding the Uruguayan stance on the White Continent. During his intervention, he delved into what is termed the “Uruguayan Antarctic Doctrine”, initially driven by the ideas of Navy Captain Carlos Travieso.
The highlights of his presentation included:
The Antarctic struggle (1945–1959): An analysis of how Uruguay navigated Cold War tensions and sovereignty disputes in the Southern Cone.
Geopolitics and omissions: The transition from a purely commercial interest (whaling and port logistics) towards national strategic thinking.
Sovereignty and Science: How the early explorations and scientific studies of the era laid the foundations for Uruguay to become a Consultative Member of the Antarctic Treaty today.
Did you know...?
Prof. Fontes' research highlights the historical importance of the Port of Montevideo as a vital hub for polar expeditions long before the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959, positioning Uruguay as a key player due to its privileged geographical location.
Watch a summary of the conference on YouTube https://youtu.be/K16aJsUky18?si=OarIDreEW2BHAI7V
