100 years after the establishment of modern quantum mechanics, we are witnessing the onset of a second quantum revolution. By exploiting the unique behaviours of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels, quantum technologies are extending capabilities to gather, process and transmit information beyond what is currently possible. These technologies represent a new paradigm for digital economies and society.
This OECD Global Forum on Technology (GFTech) event, hosted by the Government of Spain, the Ministry for the Digital Transformation and Civil Service and the Ministry for Science, Innovation and Universities, will bring together experts and policymakers for a timely dialogue on these technological developments. Expected to bring numerous benefits, including a wide range of innovative commercial applications, quantum technologies hold promise for significant contributions to global societal challenges such as food security, climate change and water resource management.
This by-invitation event will bring together those working towards such beneficial uses and mindful of mitigating risks that may be posed to human-centric values. Considerations around dual-use applications, digital security and privacy, research security, and technology leadership are creating important frictions for the international collaboration that is much needed to advance quantum technologies and to ensure their responsible development and use. Barriers to technology access and cooperation in research and policy can slow down progress in tackling pending challenges in quantum science and engineering and raise risks of misuse, particularly exposing countries that have lower capabilities in the technologies. A fragmented landscape also risks deepening divides within and across countries. Such divides can deepen economic inequalities across countries and hinder the most vulnerable nations from leveraging quantum technologies to address pressing societal challenges. No country can realise the potential socio-economic benefits of quantum technologies in isolation.
This timely dialogue supports international, multistakeholder cooperation for the responsible development and use of quantum technologies. It will bring together industry, science and policy experts to explore promises and pitfalls, the high stakes for countries across the development spectrum, and opportunities for collaboration that will be imperative to steer these technologies towards their positive potential.
