Quantum computing harnesses the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways that differ radically from classical computation. Although the technology has not yet achieved large-scale, fault-tolerant maturity, it already holds the promise of major scientific advances and the capacity to address problems long considered unsolvable, with potential applications spanning finance, medicine, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. At the same time, these transformative prospects raise significant ethical challenges related to dual-use, social equity, knowledge asymmetry, data protection and human security. The Report of the World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology offers a comprehensive ethical framework and concrete recommendations for Member States and stakeholders, encouraging anticipatory reflection, inclusive governance, and responsible innovation to ensure that the development of quantum computing serves the common good. UNESCO Catno: 0000398114 UNESDOC landing page: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000398114
Quantum computing harnesses the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways that differ radically from classical computation. Although the technology has not yet achieved large-scale, fault-tolerant maturity, it already holds the promise of major scientific advances and the capacity to address problems long considered unsolvable, with potential applications spanning finance, medicine, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. At the same time, these transformative prospects raise significant ethical challenges related to dual-use, social equity, knowledge asymmetry, data protection and human security. The Report of the World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology offers a comprehensive ethical framework and concrete recommendations for Member States and stakeholders, encouraging anticipatory reflection, inclusive governance, and responsible innovation to ensure that the development of quantum computing serves the common good. UNESCO Catno: 0000398114 UNESDOC landing page: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000398114
Quantum Computing (QC) represents a class of technologies that harness fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, particularly superposition and entanglement, to process, transmit, and secure information in ways unattainable by classical systems [1]. Positioned at the core of Quantum Information and Communication Technologies (QICT) [2], QC is central to the ongoing Second Quantum Revolution, driving innovation infrastructures and redefining capabilities in computation, networking, and secure information exchange at fundamental levels [3]. Unlike the first quantum revolution, which focused on physics and laboratory experiments, today's Quantum technology (QT) applications are inherently digital, dependent on and deeply integrated within the digital stack, relying on cloud platforms, high-performance computing, advanced telecommunications, and potentially converging with other emerging digital technologies (EDT) such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, big data, the Internet of Things (IoT) [4], [5], offering new paradigms for the digital economy and society [6]. While there remains considerable uncertainty regarding their practical, scalable applications, the disruptive potential of QC is increasingly recognized [7] with profound ethical, legal, social, and policy implications [8] and a need for practical approaches to their governance [9]. QC is not a standalone technology, but operates as a complex innovation ecosystem where research, policy, markets, and ethics co-evolve [10].
Abstract As quantum computing development advances closer toward achieving fault-tolerant error-corrected realisation, debates on applications, impacts, risks, and benefits of quantum computing are timely and due. While there is awareness of the potential power and complexity of quantum computers, there has been relatively little attention on the social impacts and ethical implications of this technology. In grappling with the social impacts of quantum computing, some stakeholders have turned to applied ethics, specifically (classical) computer and Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethics, for guidance. While computer and AI ethics are useful starting points for evaluating the ethical issues posed by quantum computing, uncritically applying existing sets of ethical principles risks overlooking how quantum computing differs from these technologies. We argue that borrowing of ethical principles and guidelines from AI and computing is inappropriate for several reasons: (1) quantum computing, classical computing, and AI are different technologies with significant material differences; (2) unlike AI and classical computers which have become established, quantum computing is an emerging technology, which has implications on the levels of accessibility and immediate impact in society; and (3) there are significant differences in the way AI and quantum computing have been developed and by whom. We also briefly summarise some of the unique risks and societ al impacts posed by quantum computing. We posit that these reasons support the argument for a new sub-field of quantum computing ethics, which would allow a relevant scholarship to develop and provide guidance as quantum computing technology continues to mature.
This paper proposes a novel conceptual framework that integrates the advanced capabilities of quantum computing to address the urgent need for responsible and inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI) development. It reviews current challenges in AI, such as bias, lack of inclusivity, and the computational limitations faced by classical computing methods in solving complex societal problems. By harnessing quantum computing, this framework aims to overcome these barriers, enabling faster, more efficient AI solutions that are ethically grounded and universally accessible. By adopting a holistic approach that integrates technical innovation with ethical considerations and stakeholder engagement, we believe that quantum computing can serve as a catalyst for the development of AI technologies that are not only more advanced but also more inclusive, responsible, and beneficial for society as a whole. This concept paper serves as a foundational framework for further research, collaboration, and action in the intersection of quantum computing and AI, with the ultimate goal of harnessing the transformative potential of these technologies to address pressing societal challenges and promote human well-being. Keywords: Quantum Computing, AI, Development, Responsible.
Quantum computing is rapidly emerging as a transformative technological paradigm with the potential to disrupt cryptography, optimization, material science, and artificial intelligence. However, its dual-use nature introduces profound regulatory, ethical, and geopolitical challenges. This paper explores the governance landscape of quantum computing, emphasizing the need for anticipatory policy frameworks, international coordination, and responsible innovation mechanisms. It highlights risks related to cybersecurity, algorithmic inequality, and technological monopolization. The study proposes a multi-layered regulatory model integrating national strategies, global treaties, and industry self-regulation to ensure equitable and secure quantum development
Thematic Area: widening access and inclusion From Schrödinger’s Box to Global Fairness: Ethical Dilemmas in Quantum Computing Abstract: Workshop application In the near future, quantum computing may fundamentally reshape our world: problems that once took years to solve could be unraveled in seconds. Yet access to quantum computing remains scarce, costly, and concentrated in the hands of a few corporations and research alliances. This workshop addresses a central ethical question: who should have access to this emerging resource—and on what moral grounds? We conceptualize quantum computing time as an emergent epistemic good (based on the ideas of Miranda Fricker) within a hybrid landscape: while most computations will continue to rely on classical resources, certain problems will increasingly demand quantum capacity. This hybridity raises questions of fairness, since epistemic advantage will depend not only on technical skill but also on access to scarce quantum infrastructures. Drawing on five perspectives—from medical research and climate modeling to cybersecurity, innovation in the private sector, and global poverty reduction—we explore how existential risks, individual interests, and the common good might be reconciled. As a thought experiment, a fictional global ethics council evaluates competing claims, highlighting the need for justice, inclusion, and ethical foresight in shaping access. Key questions include: What moral obligations arise from treating QC capacity as an epistemic good? How should access be widened to include marginalized communities, the Global South, and underfunded institutions? What principles of fairness and inclusion should guide the governance of this resource before inequalities become entrenched? The goal of the workshop is to collaboratively define ethical principles for allocating quantum computing resources in a hybrid future and to develop recommendations for inclusion policies within quantum education ecosystems—opening Schrödinger’s box not to unleash chaos, but to ensure that quantum futures are guided by ethical insight and shared responsibility. Keywords Quantum education, epistemic goods, access & inclusion, hybrid infrastructures, ethics, global justice
Quantum technologies enable potential disruptive changes by means of quantum computing, quantum communication and cryptography, and quantum sensing for both the civil and the defence domain. Quantum technologies offer potentially enhanced capabilities for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance as well as critical advancements in information security and cryptography. This paper provides decision makers with an overview of the different quantum technology fields and main application areas. Since quantum technology has by its nature a strong dual-use character, potential use cases for the defence sector are highlighted. The level of maturity of quantum technologies in the various fields is discussed and recommendations for next steps are derived for stakeholders to shape further quantum technology development. In order to understand potential risks and ethics considerations, it is of fundamental importance to complement the R&D activities with a sound global multi-stakeholder dialogue. Thus, this paper discusses the essential factors for the design of effective governance rules and summarises recommended measures to develop and operate quantum technology-based solutions in a responsible ethical framework in the civil as well as in the defence domain following digital humanism objectives.