UNICC, ITU, and Quantum Delta NL to Advance the Quantum for Good Dialogue

The Hague – 26 November 2024

The United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and Quantum Delta NL (QDNL) convened a two-day conference in The Hague to foster dialogue on the transformative potential of quantum technologies in addressing global challenges. The event, supported by the Open Quantum Institute, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, and the Municipality of The Hague, set the stage for collaboration leading to the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) in 2025.

Titled “Quantum for Good: Setting the Stage for the IYQ,” the conference underscored the transformative potential of quantum technologies in addressing global challenges while ensuring no one is left behind. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and leading experts. Discussions focused on inclusive policy frameworks, the role of international cooperation, possible applications for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and preparations for the IYQ agenda in 2025.

Saskia Bruines, Deputy Mayor of The Hague, warmly welcomed participants to the city, followed by opening remarks delivered by Tomas Lamanauskas, ITU Deputy Secretary-General, who emphasized the importance of leveraging quantum technologies for societal benefit. A subsequent opening discussion featured insights from Sameer Chauhan, UNICC Director; Enrica Porcari, Head of Information Technology at CERN; and Pieter de Witte, Board Member of Quantum Delta NL. The speakers highlighted the need for inclusive and equitable advancements in quantum technology to prevent the creation of new societal divides.

Saskia Bruines, Deputy Mayor of The Hague, delivering a speech.

Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of ITU, delivering a speech.

A fireside panel featuring Enrica Porcari, Head of Information Technology at CERN; Sameer Chauhan, Director of UNICC; and Pieter de Witte, Board Member at Quantum Delta NL, engaged in a discussion moderated by Diederick Croese, Director of the Centre for Quantum and Society at Quantum Delta NL.

Photos: Quantum Delta NL

We can make quantum a massive force for good, ensuring this technology does not drive the creation of a new divide. Let’s build partnerships and encourage the development of practical, scalable quantum-based solutions.

Tomas Lamanauskas, ITU Deputy Secretary-General

Day one concluded with dynamic panel discussions exploring the potential of quantum technologies and the essential preconditions for their successful implementation. The second day featured thematic workshops on critical areas such as cybersecurity, food security, peace and disarmament, trade and development, education, water, energy, and regional priorities for Africa. These sessions charted milestones to be achieved by the end of 2025, culminating in tangible outcomes to be presented at a follow-up conference.

Five experts on stage engaged in a discussion on "The Potential of Quantum for Good."

Twelve experts seated around a table engaging in discussion during a thematic session.

Five experts on stage engaged in a discussion on "Preconditions for Success: Talent, Access and Global Collaboration."

Photos: Quantum Delta NL

Now is the time to envision scenarios where quantum technologies are used for the greater good. At UNICC, we firmly believe that this conversation needs to start now, and the UN family has a key role to play in it. The conference has demonstrated the enormous enthusiasm around quantum technologies with the eager participation of diplomats, scholars, civil society champions, international experts, UN agencies, and the private sector.

Sameer Chauhan, UNICC Director

In September 2024, UNICC and Quantum Delta NL established a partnership to jointly explore the transformative potential of quantum technologies within the United Nations system, paving the way for the organization of the ‘Quantum for Good’ conference. Therefore, this event also served as a platform to highlight the potential of future quantum-based solutions in advancing global goals, emphasizing the importance of fostering collaboration among UN entities, quantum innovators, and civil society, as well as strengthening connections between quantum experts, scientists, and the SDGs.

This partnership offers a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with UNICC and create tangible results for, with, and across UN agencies. Together, we aim to explore the value of quantum applications for the UN family, unlocking quantum technology’s potential to tackle global challenges and drive meaningful, equitable progress.

Diederick Croese, Director of QDNL’s Centre for Quantum & Society.

In June 2024, the UN General Assembly officially declared 2025 the International Year of Quantum through a resolution co-sponsored by over 70 countries. As preparations continue for this significant milestone, this conference stands as a testament to the shared vision of harnessing quantum technologies to address the most pressing global challenges.

For more information, please contact:

At UNICC: [email protected]

At Quantum Delta NL: Diederick Croese, [email protected]