UN Proclaims 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology

In a landmark decision, the United Nations General Assembly has proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ), aiming to commemorate a century of quantum mechanics and highlight its pivotal role in modern technological advancements and sustainable development.

The resolution, introduced by Ghana and co-sponsored by over 70 countries, underscores the global consensus on the transformative potential of quantum science. UNESCO has been appointed as the lead agency to coordinate international efforts, focusing on promoting inclusive development and ensuring universal access to quantum technologies. The initiative will kick off with an opening ceremony on February 4-5, 2025, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Quantum mechanics, developed in the early 20th century, has become foundational to various scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, engineering, and biology. Its principles have led to the creation of technologies such as transistors, lasers, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which are integral to modern electronics and global telecommunications. The IYQ seeks to celebrate these achievements and raise awareness about the ongoing and future impact of quantum science.

UNESCO's role as the lead agency involves coordinating international efforts to promote inclusive development and ensure universal access to the benefits of quantum science. The organization emphasizes the need to bridge the 'quantum divide' by addressing disparities in quantum infrastructure, expertise, and opportunities, particularly in underserved regions. UNESCO's initiatives include mapping global quantum capacities, expanding remote access to quantum computing, and empowering women scientists.

The opening ceremony for IYQ is scheduled for February 4-5, 2025, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. The event will feature over 1,200 participants, including several Nobel Prize laureates, government officials, academic leaders, and industry representatives. The program includes keynote addresses, panel discussions, and an exhibition showcasing quantum science breakthroughs and innovative applications.

The opening ceremony will address several critical themes:

• Bridging the Quantum Divide: Discussions will focus on ensuring equitable access to quantum technologies and addressing disparities between the Global North and South. Representatives from Ghana and Mexico have emphasized the urgent need for global cooperation to ensure inclusive progress.

• Global Quantum Agenda: UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Dr. Lidia Brito, has called for establishing a Global Quantum Agenda to promote awareness, equitable knowledge access, capacity-building, and ethical development in quantum science.

• Industry Perspectives: Representatives from companies like IBM, Microsoft, and Quantinuum will discuss the industry's role in quantum developments and the necessity of a quantum-ready workforce to implement scientific breakthroughs effectively.

The IYQ initiative underscores the transformative potential of quantum science in addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, and secure communications. By promoting inclusive development and equitable access to quantum technologies, the initiative aims to prevent the widening of the quantum divide and ensure that all countries, especially developing ones, can benefit from these advancements.

This is the first time the United Nations has proclaimed an International Year dedicated to quantum science and technology, marking a significant recognition of the field's impact over the past century. The initiative aligns with previous efforts to highlight the importance of scientific advancements, such as the International Year of Light in 2015.

The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology 2025 represents a pivotal moment to celebrate a century of quantum mechanics and to address the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Through global collaboration and inclusive development, the initiative aims to harness the transformative power of quantum science for the benefit of all humanity.