The CTBT Young Leaders (CYL) community is a voluntary, youth-led global network of passionate young professionals and students dedicated to advancing the objectives of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).
The Group, originally established as the CTBTO Youth Group (CYG), was founded in 2016 during the CTBT: Science and Diplomacy Symposium, convened to mark the 20th anniversary of the Treaty’s opening for signature. A key outcome of the symposium was the recognition that young people have an essential role to play as partners in shaping the future of nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, and international security.
What began as a small youth initiative has since evolved into a truly global movement. In 2021, the CTBTO Youth Group marked its fifth anniversary, having grown to nearly 1,200 members from more than 117 countries, including a significant number from the non-ratifying Annex 2 States. Throughout the year, members actively participated in national, regional, and international events and initiatives to promote the CTBT’s entry into force and universalization.
The CTBTO has consistently worked to ensure that youth have a meaningful seat at the table in international discussions, in line with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015) on Youth, Peace and Security. A milestone achievement came in September 2021, when a CTBT Young Leader briefed the United Nations Security Council during the special session marking the 25th anniversary of the CTBT under Ireland’s presidency, demonstrating the growing recognition of youth perspectives in global peace and security policymaking.
CYL have also contributed to a wide range of high-level forums and events, including the VCDNP high-level webinar on the future of the CTBT in advancing nuclear verification and disarmament, the 2021 Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the CTBT (Article XIV Conference), and the CTBT Science and Technology Conference. Beyond advocacy, the Group has prioritized youth-focused capacity building through initiatives such as the Citizen Journalism Academy, which strengthens participants’ communication and social media skills; the CENESS–CTBTO Youth Group Research Fellowship; and a series of webinars under the Building Bridges, Nurture Partnerships, Embrace Dialogue project. These initiatives foster cross-sector learning by connecting the nuclear disarmament community with experts in fields such as climate change advocacy and gender empowerment.
Throughout 2026, young members of the Group increasingly took part in high-level discussions and international events on the CTBT and nuclear testing. From Ashgabat to Bangkok and New York, CYL brought youth perspectives to discussions on the Treaty’s continuing relevance and the goal of a world free of nuclear testing. Members participated alongside senior officials and diplomats, delivered remarks at international events, and contributed to public outreach and awareness-raising initiatives, including activities marking the International Day against Nuclear Tests (#IDANT).
Today, the CTBT Young Leaders community continues to serve as a dynamic platform for young experts and professionals to engage in advocacy, research, education, and international dialogue in support of the CTBT and its verification regime. As the Treaty marks 30 years since its opening for signature, the community has been relaunched with a new name, a new visual identity, and a new Steering Committee, marking a new chapter in its evolution. Now known as the CTBT Young Leaders (CYL), the revitalised community builds on the legacy of the former CTBTO Youth Group (CYG) while looking ahead to the next generation of engagement with the Treaty.
CTBT Young Leaders' Objectives
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Revitalise the conversation around the CTBT by engaging former, current, and emerging decision-makers, scientists, academics, experts, and media professionals.
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Raise awareness of the importance of the nuclear test ban and its role in advancing international peace and security.
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Foster knowledge transfer between generations and help build a strong foundation for the next generation of CTBT advocates and experts.
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Harness new technologies and innovative approaches to support the universalization and entry into force of the CTBT.
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Keep the CTBT on the global agenda by promoting its consideration at major international forums and events focused on nuclear issues, non-proliferation, disarmament, and international security.