Policy areas
Focus areas of research and analysis
Governance, ethics and responsible innovation
Key policy questions
- How should quantum technology be developed to minimise risks and capitalise on emerging opportunities?
- How can governance frameworks be adapted to address the unique risks and uncertainties of quantum technologies?
- What models of global governance could be needed to harmonise responsible innovation and ethical standards across borders?
- What mix of oversight mechanisms might be required to guide its responsible progression?
- What lessons can be drawn from the experiences of other emerging technologies to inform the responsible development of quantum technology?
With the advancement of quantum technology and its increasing emphasis on practical applications, new oversight and ethical challenges are expected to emerge. Several quantum technology national strategies highlight the need to ensure that quantum technology development is aligned with key societal values (such as equity and fairness) and avoids risks (such as privacy and security) and unintended consequences (such as contributing to increased inequalities and the so-called quantum divide). The central challenge is finding ways to encourage beneficial applications while effectively managing the associated risks. Robust governance frameworks will be needed to proactively promote the progression of innovative, cutting-edge R&I while also managing potential risks associated with dual-use applications, unintended consequences, and rapid technological disruption.
Our analysis indicates that valuable insights can be drawn from past instances of technological oversight, which may help guide the governance of other emerging technologies like quantum technology now and in the future. Public engagement is also becoming increasingly relevant to shaping the responsible development of quantum technologies, as reiterated by recent public-facing efforts such as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. Our landscape analysis of the use of public engagement in science and technology emphasises that engaging diverse voices helps to build trust, foster transparency and ensure that governance approaches reflect wider societal values and concerns.
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 governance, ethics and responsible innovation. Watch this space for future updates.
Explore our growing data and analysis on quantum technology governance, ethics and responsible innovation:
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.