The paper examines the process and context of international efforts to designate MPAs in the Southern Ocean. The relationship between the CAMLR Convention and the Madrid Protocol is examined in relation to legal, political and administrative norms and practices. A contextual overview of the Antarctic marine protected area system is considered followed by overlapping competencies of CCAMLR and the Madrid Protocol. The Antarctic MPA debate is placed in a wider international legal context of the management of global oceans space in areas beyond national jurisdiction. We provide an analysis of the politico--legal discourse and point to complicating factors within, and external to, the Antarctic system. The concluding section suggests options for breathing new life into the Southern Ocean MPA discourse.

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BiodiversityAlso referred to as biological diversity, biodiversity describes the variety and variability of nature. Plant and animal species are the most commonly recognised units of biological diversity. Sustainable developmentIn 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development (the Brundtland Commission) defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." It requires an integration of economic, social and environmental considerations in decision making at both government and corporation levels in order to aim for development that does not rely upon the short term exploitaition of any resources. Environmental impact assessment (EIA)A critical appraisal of the likely effects of a policy, plan, program, project or activity on the environment. These assessments are usually carried out by independent assessors in order to assist the authority making the decision about whether to proceed with a particular activity. Good governanceThe term refers to a form of democratic governance that assumes legitimacy through accountability, predictability and openness of government formed by consent of the people and in accordance with the rule of law. In terms of resource allocation and acquisition, good governance presupposes consultation and participation of those affected by projects and transparency of decision making and resource allocation.