On the eve of the International Polar Year, it was necessary to evaluate French research and our country's position in these regions. Subjected to accelerated climate change which threatens their biodiversity, these regions are at the heart of current concerns. As they become more accessible, they become strategic. The Senator Christian Gaudin, the first member of the French parliament to visit Antarctica, takes stock of the situation, analyzing the most important scientific issues and the organization of our means and on-site presence. At the end of this study, he presents recommendations for our country to adopt a strategy, organization and resources to provide itself with the means for excellence.