China refines rules on Antarctic activities, environmental protection

Chinese lawmakers highlighted the country's stance on global governance and refined rules on scientific research and legal liability in Antarctica as they reviewed a draft law on Antarctic activities and environmental protection during its third reading.

The draft, comprising seven chapters and 59 articles, was submitted on Monday to the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the top legislature.

To reflect China's role and position in global governance, the draft introduces a provision emphasizing the principles of sovereign equality, adherence to international rule of law, practice of multilateralism, advocacy for a people-centered approach, and a focus on action orientation, under which China actively participates in polar global governance and the formulation of relevant international rules.

Zhou Guangquan, an official with the NPC Constitution and Law Committee, told legislators that the draft underscores the importance of Antarctic expeditions in better understanding, protecting and utilizing the region, and proposes to establish an Antarctic expedition system.

"To enhance the focus of Antarctic scientific research and improve its quality and effectiveness, it is necessary to further strengthen national coordination of the direction of Antarctic scientific research," Zhou said.

The draft specifies that the state shall coordinate Antarctic scientific research directions based on the needs of Antarctic undertakings. It should also support and guide scientific research institutions, universities and social organizations in carrying out Antarctic expedition activities and related scientific research in an orderly and lawful manner.

Regarding samples and data generated during Antarctic expeditions, the draft changes the submission deadline from a prescribed period after the conclusion of activities to a prescribed time limit, recognizing that submission may also be required during the course of an expedition, Zhou said.

Compared with the second draft, which stipulated safeguards for the country's activities, assets and other interests in Antarctica, the revised draft further strengthens protection for the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens, legal entities and organizations operating in the region.

The draft also tightens legal liability for damaging, moving or dismantling Antarctic historical sites or monuments. Offenders will be ordered to cease illegal acts and fined between 50,000 yuan and 100,000 yuan (between $7,523 and $15,046). In serious cases, the fine will range from 100,000 yuan to 300,000 yuan, and offenders will be barred from applying for Antarctic activity permits again.