Policy areas
Focus areas of research and analysis
Global cooperation
Key policy questions
- In what ways and in what areas are different stakeholders collaborating internationally on quantum technology?
- To what extent is collaboration shaping the development of the global quantum technology ecosystem?
- How can international cooperation balance the push for open scientific collaboration with the protection of national security and economic interests in quantum research?
- What strategies can reduce the risk of a quantum technology divide between countries?
- How can trust be built among nations to reduce geopolitical competition while still fostering innovation and technological leadership?
- What strategies can reduce the risk of a quantum technology divide between countries?
Quantum technology development is inherently global, with research, supply chains and policy challenges crossing national borders. Global cooperation in quantum technology offers opportunities for shared progress and the forging of trusted partnerships, but it also presents challenges. Advances in quantum technology could transform numerous fields, yet unequal access to resources and expertise risk deepening global quantum divides. The designation of 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the United Nations, further underscores the urgency and opportunity for inclusive global policy dialogue. Several national quantum strategies recognise that international cooperation is essential for advancing quantum technology, and have explicitly identified global partnerships as a strategic priority, aiming to accelerate research, harmonise standards and address shared challenges such as security, talent development and ethical governance. Our research further illustrates the complex dynamics of global cooperation, which often give rise to patterns of ‘co-opetition’, characterised by a mixture of strategic competition led by dual-use concerns and broader geopolitical dynamics, and highly cooperative activity, often driven by bottom-up, global initiatives.
Note: During the initial pilot phase of our work, QTOPS is concentrating on quantum technology education, skills and workforce development. Over time, our activities will expand to cover additional policy areas, including global cooperation. Watch this space for future updates.
Explore our growing data and analysis on global cooperation:
To explore our data and analysis in other policy areas, check out our overview page.
We value collaboration and engagement with stakeholders across the quantum technology ecosystem. Reach out to us for enquiries, partnerships, or to learn more about us and what we can offer. To begin a conversation, send an email to qtops@randeurope.org.