24 September 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of France’s signature of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (TICE). This Treaty is a key part of France’s record in terms of disarmament and illustrates its progressive and pragmatic approach to nuclear disarmament.
France’s support for the CTBT
Together with the UK, France was the first nuclear-weapon State to sign the CTBT on September 24, 1996, and then to ratify it. It was the only State to irreversibly dismantle its nuclear test site. It has a perfect record of supporting the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), both in scientific and budgetary terms. France has made a significant contribution to the CTBTO International Monitoring System, with several facilities:
- 16 stations on its territory
- 8 stations abroad
- 1 certified radionuclide laboratory.
With the certification of the IS25 station in overseas French territory Guadeloupe, France has now fulfilled all its engagements regarding the Treaty, standing out singularly through this effort.
Today, 185 States have signed the CTBT and 170 have ratified it. Eight States, known as “Annex 2” States, i.e. seen as essential to the entry into force of the CTBT, have yet to ratify the Treaty.
France is fully committed to the universalization of the CTBT and co-sponsored UNSC Resolution 2310, which urges all States that have either not signed or not ratified the Treaty to do so without further delay.
An exhibition to find out more about the Treaty
To mark this anniversary, the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) has organized an exhibition (in French) explaining the CTBT negotiations, France’s work to make them a success, as well as the treaty’s main principles and implementation. It can be seen online.