23 December 2024

Quantum Technology, Peace and Security: A Primer

ZHANNA L. MALEKOS SMITH & GIACOMO PERSI PAOLI

Introduction: The Rise of Quantum Technology

The rise of research, innovation and investment in quantum technology is becoming a global phenomenon.1 As a technology, it holds much promise for enabling significant breakthroughs in support of many sustainable development goals.

Despite the alluring benefits of quantum technology, there is also apprehension about the risks it could bring to international peace and security. The United Nations Secretary-General cautioned the General Assembly in 2022 that quantum computers could potentially “destroy cybersecurity and increase the risk of malfunctions to complex systems. We don’t have the beginnings of a global architecture to deal with any of this.”

To be sure, the extent to which quantum-based technologies may shape the future character of warfare, or of security more generally, remains highly uncertain, especially given the fragile and nascent state of quantum systems.4 Despite this ambiguity, from a global security perspective, because quantum science and technology could revolutionize the field of computing so profoundly, it is important to invest in early education and knowledge-building.

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