The UN has declared 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). This global initiative marks a century of advancements in quantum science and aims to promote its role in achieving sustainable development for the 21st century. Additionally, IYQ strives to ensure global access to education and opportunities in the field of quantum science.
IYQ coincides with the 100th anniversary of the birth of modern quantum mechanics. This revolutionary theory describes the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level and has been instrumental in developing many of the world’s most important technologies. Over the past century, quantum theory has become foundational for various fields like physics, chemistry, engineering, and biology. It has revolutionized modern electronics and global telecommunications, leading to inventions like transistors, lasers, and LEDs. These technologies have brought about the internet, computers, solar cells, MRI machines, and global navigation.
Looking towards the future, advancements in quantum applications have the potential to enable entirely new computing and communication models. These models could accelerate innovations in materials science, medicine, cybersecurity, and many other fields. Quantum science and technology are poised to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, including the need for rapid development of renewable energy sources, improvements in human health, and the creation of global solutions that support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
UN proclamation is the culmination of a multi-year effort spearheaded by an international coalition of scientific organizations, including ICFO. After Mexico guided the coalition’s initial proposal through UNESCO’s General Conference, Ghana formally submitted a draft resolution to the UN General Assembly. The resolution gained co-sponsorship from several countries before its approval.
The American Physical Society will manage the IYQ campaign through an international consortium. They will invite scientific societies, academic institutions, philanthropic organizations, and industry leaders to contribute to the initiative. The consortium’s founding partners include the American Physical Society, the German Physical Society, the Chinese Optical Society, SPIE (the international society for optics and photonics), and Optica (formerly OSA).
“The American Physical Society welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with scientific organizations from around the world to spread awareness about quantum science and technology,” said Jonathan Bagger, chief executive officer of the American Physical Society. “With worldwide events and programming, we hope to build a vibrant and inclusive global quantum science community.”
ICFO, a research center heavily involved in quantum science and technology research, was a strong supporter of the UN resolution for IYQ. ICFO Director Lluís Torner emphasizes the transformative power of quantum science throughout the 20th century, paving the way for the digital revolution we live in today. He highlights the potential of IYQ to raise public awareness about this fascinating field. ICFO plans to leverage this initiative to educate society about the wonders and possibilities of the quantum world.
