Psychological Evaluation for Researcher Amid Allegations at South African Antarctic Base

A member of a South African research team confined for over a year at the SANAE IV base in Antarctica has been placed under psychological evaluation following allegations of assault and sexual harassment against colleagues. The situation, first reported by South Africa’s Sunday Times, revealed that the team member allegedly attacked the base leader and made threats, prompting urgent calls for help from a fellow team member.

In an email to authorities, a team member expressed deep concern for personal safety, stating, “His behavior has escalated to a point that is deeply disturbing,” and indicated fear of becoming a victim of further aggression. The report included claims of a death threat made by the accused.

South Africa’s Ministry of Environment, which oversees Antarctic research missions, confirmed that the alleged incident occurred on February 27. They stated that officials and counselors have been engaging with the team remotely to mediate and restore relationships at the base. The ministry noted that the alleged perpetrator has participated willingly in psychological evaluations, expressed remorse, and offered a formal apology to the victim.

The nine-member team, comprising scientists, a doctor, and engineers, is expected to remain at the isolated base for approximately 13 months, enduring the harsh Antarctic winter, which includes six months of darkness starting in June. The SANAE IV base is located on a cliff in Queen Maud Land, over 4,000 kilometers from South Africa, surrounded by a glacial ice sheet.

Authorities have decided against evacuating anyone from the base, as unpredictable weather conditions have confined the team there. The next scheduled supply ship visit is not until December, with the journey from Cape Town taking around ten days.

The Ministry emphasized that all team members underwent evaluations before departure to ensure their capability to handle the extreme Antarctic environment and its isolation, stating that no issues were identified prior to the trip. They acknowledged that adjustment to the remote conditions can be challenging for individuals once they arrive.

This incident is not the first reported issue at South Africa’s Antarctic research facilities; a previous case in 2017 involved a team member on Marion Island who allegedly attacked a colleague over a personal dispute, highlighting the stress researchers may face in isolated environments. Additionally, a 2022 report from the National Science Foundation indicated that 59% of women in the US Antarctic Program reported experiencing harassment or assault during their trips.