Member States reappoint Robert Floyd as CTBTO Executive Secretary for second term

Member States of the governing body of the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) have reappointed Robert Floyd as Executive Secretary, affirming his leadership for a second term. This extension will see Floyd continue in his role through 2029.

“I am truly honoured, and I look forward to continuing our important work together with Member States, advancing our shared mission of a nuclear-test-free world and a world of peace and security, now and for generations to come,” said Floyd.

Addressing the 63rd Preparatory Commission session on Monday, 11 November, at CTBTO headquarters in Vienna, Floyd shared his vision for the organization's future. “I will remain focused on working with all of you to secure the entry into force of this critical Treaty. In times of global uncertainty, it is essential that we protect and strengthen what we have built together: this organization, our work, the International Monitoring System (IMS), and the invaluable skills within our team.” 

The CTBTO head also outlined several key priorities for his second term, including the establishment and certification of the remaining IMS facilities. He emphasised the importance of sustaining the unique global monitoring network and expanding capacity building opportunities for states that have signed the CTBT. He also highlighted the upcoming On-Site Inspection Integrated Field Exercise (IFE) in Sri Lanka - designed to rigorously test the application of OSI techniques, mechanisms, systems, and procedures, as a critical step in further developing verification capabilities. 

Floyd further reiterated his commitment to promoting diversity, known as "the three Gs" - ensuring geographic, gender, and generational representation across the organization.

Floyd, an Australian national, has led the CTBTO since August 2021. Before joining the organization, he served as Director-General of the Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ASNO), Australia’s authority on treaties that control weapons of mass destruction, including managing 23 IMS facilities to monitor and detect nuclear explosions.

A dedicated advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment, Floyd is an International Gender Champion and has been active in the IGC network since 2021.

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, 306 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 Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Gunnar Vrang
Chief, Public Information Section
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