Statement by Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the CTBTO

Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), issued the following statement today: 

“I am aware of recent public remarks that draw attention to ongoing concerns about nuclear weapons testing. 

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans all nuclear explosions. Its International Monitoring System (IMS) can and will detect any nuclear weapon test explosion anywhere on the planet and has successfully detected all six declared nuclear tests conducted this century. 

Any explosive nuclear weapon test by any State would be harmful and destabilising for global non-proliferation efforts and for international peace and security. The CTBTO’s monitoring system stands ready to detect any such test and provide the data to CTBT States Signatories.  

Like others, I see in this complex and challenging moment an opportunity for world leaders to step forward and work together, on an equal basis, towards the ratification of the CTBT and the shared goal of a world free from nuclear weapons testing.” 

The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans all nuclear explosions everywhere, by everyone, and for all time. Adherence to the Treaty is nearly universal, with 187 signatories and 178 ratifying States. To enter into force, the Treaty must be ratified by all 44 States listed in its Annex 2, for which nine ratifications are still required. 

The CTBTO has established an International Monitoring System (IMS) to ensure that no nuclear test explosion goes undetected. Currently, 307 certified facilities - of a total of 337 when complete - are operating around the world, using four main technologies: seismic, hydroacoustic, infrasound and radionuclide. 

The data collected by the IMS has also been used for disaster mitigation such as earthquake monitoring and tsunami warning, as well as research into fields as diverse as whale migration, climate change and the prediction of monsoon rains.  

You can learn more about the Treaty and the Organization at www.ctbto.org and @CTBTO on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.