Argentine Territorial Limits and Zones

Understanding Argentine Territorial Limits and Maritime Zones

Argentina’s borders and maritime claims are defined by a mix of geodésic (coordinate‑based), natural (physical features), and historical limits. Mastering these concepts is essential for students of international law, geography, and geopolitics. This course breaks down each type of limit, explains key Antarctic and maritime zones, and highlights the strategic interests that shape Argentina’s foreign policy.

1. Types of Territorial Limits

Territorial limits can be classified into three main categories:

• Geodésic limits: Defined by precise geographic coordinates such as meridians and parallels. These limits are often used in treaties and legal documents because they provide an unambiguous, measurable line on the globe.
• Natural limits: Formed by physical features like rivers, mountain ranges, or watersheds. They are historically common because they are easily recognizable on the ground.
• Geometric limits: Constructed from straight lines drawn between points, regardless of the underlying terrain. They are typically employed when natural features are absent or when parties wish to create a neutral boundary.

In the Argentine context, the geodésic limit is exemplified by the coordinates that define the Argentine Antarctic sector (25° O to 74° O). Meanwhile, the Andes mountain range serves as a classic natural cordilleran limit between Argentina and Chile.

2. The Antarctic Sector and Its Boundaries

Argentina claims a sector of Antarctica extending from the South Pole to the 60° S latitude, bounded longitudinally by the meridians 25° O and 74° O. This sector is part of a broader set of claims by several nations, all of which are regulated by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959.

• Western boundary: 25° O longitude.
• Eastern boundary: 74° O longitude.
• Key feature: The water divide (watershed) in the Continental Ice area is not visible because the ice cover obscures the natural line that would otherwise separate drainage basins.

The treaty permits only peaceful scientific activity and explicitly bans military installations and mineral exploitation. Argentina therefore conducts research stations and logistical operations under the treaty’s civilian framework.

3. Maritime Zones Under International Law

Argentina’s maritime jurisdiction follows the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The main zones are:

• Territorial Sea – Extends up to 12 nautical miles (nm) from the baseline. Argentina exercises full sovereignty, similar to its land territory.
• Contiguous Zone – Reaches 24 nm from the baseline. Here, Argentina can enforce customs, fiscal, immigration, and sanitary regulations.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – Up to 200 nm. Argentina has exclusive rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage natural resources (both living and non‑living) in the water column and seabed.
• Milla 201 – The area beyond 200 nm, considered international waters where foreign vessels may fish, subject to regional agreements.

It is a common misconception that the EEZ grants only fishing rights. In reality, the EEZ provides comprehensive economic rights, including oil and gas exploration, mineral extraction, and scientific research.

4. Strategic Interests in the Continental Ice and Maritime Zones

Chile’s interest in the Continental Ice boundary stems from three strategic factors:

• Territorial control: The ice sheet influences the delineation of national boundaries in the southernmost part of South America.
• Fresh water resources: Meltwater from the ice contributes to regional water supplies, making the watershed a valuable asset.
• Geopolitical significance: Control over the ice impacts navigation routes, scientific research stations, and potential future resource exploitation.

Understanding these interests helps explain why both Argentina and Chile closely monitor the ice divide, even though it is hidden beneath the ice cap.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What defines a geodésic limit?

A geodésic limit is established by exact latitude and longitude coordinates. It is the most precise way to demarcate borders, especially in remote or featureless regions such as Antarctica.

Why is the water divide invisible in the Continental Ice area?

The ice sheet covers the terrain, masking the natural watershed line that would otherwise separate river basins. Satellite radar and ice‑penetrating technologies are required to detect it.

Does the EEZ give Argentina the right to fish anywhere within 200 nm?

No. While fishing is a component of EEZ rights, Argentina also holds exclusive rights to exploit mineral resources, conduct scientific research, and regulate environmental protection within this zone.

6. Summary of Key Points

• Geodésic limits rely on coordinates; Argentina’s Antarctic sector is defined by 25° O–74° O.
• Natural limits, such as the Andes, are based on physical geography.
• The Antarctic Treaty allows peaceful scientific work but bans military and mining activities.
• Argentina’s maritime zones include the Territorial Sea (12 nm), Contiguous Zone (24 nm), EEZ (200 nm), and Milla 201 (beyond 200 nm).
• The EEZ provides comprehensive economic rights, not just fishing.
• Chile’s strategic interest in the Continental Ice involves territory, fresh water, and geopolitics.

7. Further Reading and Resources

For deeper exploration, consider the following sources:

• United Nations – Law of the Sea
• Antarctic Treaty System
• Official Argentine Government Portal – Territorial and Maritime Claims
• Scientific articles on watershed detection under ice