On 7th May,  representatives from eight of the GRULAC (Group of Latin America and the Caribbean) Permanent Missions to the United Nations Office at Geneva attended the Open Quantum Institute’s first-ever Quantum Unplugged event hosted at IdeaSquare, the innovation space at CERN—a fitting backdrop to explore the fundamental principles of quantum physics and computing, complete with a red double-decker London bus situated in the heart of the space.

But what is Quantum Unplugged?

Created by OQI in collaboration with the Permanent Missions of Brazil, Chile and Mexico, Quantum Unplugged invites the diplomatic community to collaboratively explore the concepts of quantum mechanics and quantum computing–fostering open dialogue and leaving jargon at the door. 

The session was facilitated by Martin Gastal, OQI’s Partnerships and Engagement Lead, who gave an introduction to the key principles of quantum mechanics and quantum computing, with contributions from Mira Wolf-Bauwens, Head of Initiatives Development at GESDA. This was followed by an open-floor discussion, where diplomats had the opportunity to ask questions and collaboratively explore the transformative potential of developing quantum technologies on society. 

Conversations addressed key topics, such as promoting global capacity building efforts and the importance of demystifying and dehyping quantum–instead placing a focus on how to shape developing quantum technology into something that can be tangible and inclusive for everyone. 

Martin also presented the work we are doing at OQI towards developing quantum computing applications to contribute to accelerating the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a focus on real-world impact, OQI is driving collaboration between research, diplomacy, private sector and philanthropy stakeholders, offering a neutral platform for international collaboration. We are also focusing our efforts to ensure that the regulatory frameworks and policies for quantum computing are in place before it is fully realised.

Since 2021, OQI has been curating a diplomatic dialogue on quantum computing with permanent representations in Geneva–with inputs from UN international organisations, the private sector and academia. The first session of Quantum Unplugged is an example of how we are continuing this dialogue, through fostering engagement with the diplomatic community to collaboratively build capacity and co-shape the developing technology for the benefit of all.

Find out more about OQI’s multilateral efforts to shape the governance of quantum computing: https://open-quantum-institute.cern/diplomacy/