O Entorno estratégico brasileiro e a importância da presença brasileira na Antártica

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to probe how the discontinuity/unpredictability of the budgetary resources for the Brazilian Antarctic Program (PROANTAR), after three decades of existence, may affect logistics performance and scientific researches, a requirement to remain a consultative member in the Antarctic Treaty (AT). Initially, through the means of bibliographic research, the history of the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) and the Brazilian presence on the continent was presented. Afterward, using documentary research on existent archives from the Brazilian Navy and other agencies composing the Brazilian Antarctic System (BAS), a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the statistic data was carried out, to form an accurate picture of the Program's current state. Ultimately, a cross-check between the information from other countries and the ones gathered from the bibliographic and documentary research was done, identifying the vulnerabilities and growth opportunities from PROANTAR, in order to achieve protagonism in the ATS. The results of this study indicate the necessity of continuous and consistent investments, as well as the increase of the Program's objectives and results divulgation, aiming at leading the country to a prominent position inside the ATS, thus extending its influence over the continent.