Event organized by the Berlin Office of IFSH on the topic “Stopping Nuclear Weapons Tests: How Can It Be Achieved?” on December 5, 2024.
Nuclear weapons tests pose a significant threat to global security by signaling an intensified arms race to other nations. A comprehensive and verifiable halt to these tests could have a stabilizing effect, as it fosters trust between countries. However, a complete ban on nuclear weapons tests has been stalled for decades. On a positive note, while certain experiments remain permissible, there is currently a moratorium on explosive nuclear weapons tests for the USA, Russia, and China. Nevertheless, in recent years, the USA has accused Russia of conducting prohibited experiments, sparking discussions about potentially ending the general moratorium.
To address this issue and strengthen the testing ban, IFSH researchers have developed new methods capable of determining whether tests were conducted within legal parameters. In this “Briefly Explained” session, Prof. Dr. Julien de Troullioud de Lanversin, a physicist at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a fellow of the RNT project, presented his research findings on this subject. He explained technical details such as the “Zero Yield Standard” and discussed current developments related to nuclear weapons tests. Anja Dahlmann, head of the Berlin Office of IFSH, moderated the event.
The “Briefly Explained” format is designed for members of the German Bundestag and their staff, as well as representatives from ministries. It presents current research findings from IFSH in a particularly concise and engaging manner—typically within an hour while enjoying a delicious breakfast.
©IFSH
