In their call, researchers stress that standards-first framework is more urgent than ever in guiding the development of quantum technologies. This holistic, multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to addressing the multifaceted, nuanced challenges that these technologies present. It completely misses the mark on the technical, ethical, social and legal domains. A well-organized governance structure is essential. It is uniquely capable of producing robust, high-impact standards that lead to global harmonization—even amid the rise of geopolitical competition between the United States, China, and Europe.
The unique and complicated qualities found in quantum technologies require a priority on standards first, not regulatory action. What do the experts think? All agree on strong, clear technical and ethical standards. Without them, we will fail to realize the potential benefits that quantum technologies can bring. The quality management system we proposed would provide a roadmap for the safe, responsible development and deployment of these advanced technologies.
Importance of Standards in Quantum Technologies
While quantum technologies offer incredible opportunities—a new frontier in scientific and engineering innovation—they simultaneously create unique and complex challenges. These present not just technical barriers, but major ethical, social, and legal ramifications. Researchers have found that overcoming these challenges starts with a clear plan for standards.
A standards-first, performance-based methodology looks at the art of the possible even more broadly to identify best practices. Most importantly, it requires meaningful and active engagement of all stakeholders—governments, industry leaders, and civil society—in the development process. By establishing clear benchmarks, stakeholders can work together more effectively to navigate the intricate landscape of quantum technology.
Further, the internationalized/research character of quantum research requires that collaboration, or at a minimum cooperation, drive progress. Given the varying political agendas of countries from all over the world, standards can provide a common language and framework that smoothes the way to work together. While competition will always exist between China and the United States, there remains much that both countries can do to cooperate. They can invest in and commit to common quantum technology standards.
Facilitating International Cooperation
International collaboration in the space of quantum technologies is not just a nice to have, it is imperative. As countries around the world pour billions into quantum R&D, there is a pressing need for a coordinated international effort. In a landscape where political alliances will undoubtedly continue to shift and change, the creation of technical standards offers an opportunity for partnership that can bridge geopolitical divides.
Researchers attest that development of collaborative standards can happen in the midst of severe political discord. This reality is all the more important given today’s geopolitical landscape, especially China, U.S., and EU relations. By focusing on technical standards first, nations can avoid a lot of the political traps that loom. This joint strategy allows them to work together more efficiently on common tech hurdles.
Yet the EU has done a remarkable job in crafting AI regulations that place civil society voices and fundamental rights concerns front and center. Today, we must do the same for quantum technologies. An approach like this would help us make sure that ethical implications are built into the technological development process from the start.
Building Trust Through Standards
Trust is an essential element of any emerging technology, but particularly one as complex and opaque as quantum technology. Clear, transparent standards will be necessary to build this trust among users, developers, and regulatory entities. They gain a deep well of trust and certainty. Standards not only define acceptable practices but help stakeholders understand regulatory requirements.
On this note, regulatory initiatives accounting for AI today, such as the EU AI Act, provide a valuable baseline. Even though these regulations offer some clear guidelines for how we should be using AI ethically, researchers insist that to fully grasp their significance we need complementary standards. Developing comprehensive standards for quantum technologies will enable stakeholders to grasp how these technologies can be regulated effectively while ensuring compliance with ethical norms.
In an era defined by great power competition between China, the United States, and others, collaboration is a force multiplier. A collaborative, inclusive alternative to standardization provides tremendous benefits. As these countries continue to improve upon common standards, they can forge a robust culture of mutual trust. Our shared engagement will create opportunities for all parties.