Turkey Signs the Svalbard Treaty
Turkey has officially joined the Svalbard Treaty following the publication of a presidential decree in the Official Gazette. This treaty defines the legal status of the Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic region.
What is the Svalbard Treaty?
The Svalbard Treaty was signed in Paris on February 9, 1920, and came into effect in 1925. It recognizes Norway's sovereignty over the archipelago while granting equal rights to citizens of the signatory states in terms of:
- Property ownership and residence
- Fishing and mineral resource extraction
- Commercial activities
- Scientific research
What Changes for Turkey?
By joining the treaty, Turkish citizens and businesses gain new opportunities on Svalbard, including:
- The ability to purchase property and reside on the archipelago
- Fishing in its territorial waters
- Engaging in commercial activities in the maritime and mining sectors
Additionally, Turkish scientists will be able to conduct research at a planned Turkish scientific station, and Turkish students will have access to educational opportunities at Svalbard’s university center.
Turkey’s Strategic Goals in the Arctic
This move aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Arctic, utilize the region’s natural resources, and expand its scientific and economic activities. Turkey is also continuing its efforts to obtain observer status in the Arctic Council.
Turkey’s Polar Research Expeditions
Turkey has been actively conducting scientific research in both the Arctic and Antarctic regions:
- In 2024, Turkey successfully completed its fourth National Arctic Research Expedition (TASE-IV) in Norway’s exclusive economic zone and the surrounding waters of Svalbard.
- In 2024, Turkey established a near-Earth space observation station on Horseshoe Island in Antarctica as part of the ninth National Antarctic Research Expedition (TAE-IX).
- Since 2017, Turkey has conducted 12 polar research expeditions: eight in Antarctica and four in the Arctic.
By signing the Svalbard Treaty, Turkey is opening new avenues for its scientific and economic expansion in the Arctic, further strengthening its presence in the region.
