Message of the Secretary-General on the International Day against Nuclear Tests, 2026

This day reminds us of the devastating consequences of nuclear testing — lessons humanity has learned through bitter experience. 

It is a time to reflect on the victims and survivors of nuclear testing, whose lives, lands and descendants have been scarred by nuclear explosions. 

Their suffering is not history. It is a warning. 

At this moment of geopolitical tension, division and distrust, it is more important than ever that we heed that warning.

This year marks thirty years since the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty opened for signature and 35 years since the closure of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site. Such milestones remind us that humanity can and must choose restraint over ruin.

Nuclear tests do not prove strength. They shatter trust, invite reciprocal tests, fuel a nuclear arms race and betray every community still living with the legacy of past nuclear tests.

The world must never witness another nuclear explosion. 

I call on all States possessing nuclear weapons to maintain existing moratoria and act to bring the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty into force without delay. 

Let’s remember why this Day exists. 

Let’s re-commit to ending nuclear testing. 

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