IGF 2025 WS #455 Equitable and Sustainable Quantum Innovation Frameworks

    Organizer 1: Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
    Organizer 2: Technical Community, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
    Organizer 3: Civil Society, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
    Speaker 1: Romulo Oliveira, Government, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
    Speaker 2: Prachi Mishra, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
    Speaker 3: Walter Britto Gaspar, Technical Community, Latin American and Caribbean Group (GRULAC)
    Format
    Classroom
    Duration (minutes): 60
    Format description: Quantum technologies represent a highly specialized and emerging domain that demands nuanced understanding. The classroom-style format is particularly suitable because it provides a structured approach to introducing complex technological and policy concepts. By allocating 60 minutes, the session ensures speakers can comprehensively explain intricate topics without risking audience fatigue. This format enables a methodical exploration of quantum technologies, addressing the critical need to bridge knowledge gaps and highlight the financial and technical disparities across different regions.
    Policy Question(s)
    How can policies bridge the quantum divide by addressing disparities in public funding and investment across regions? How can quantum technology policies be aligned with Sustainable Development Goals to promote inclusive and sustainable growth? How can policy frameworks be designed to build resilient and inclusive innovation systems that accelerate quantum technology development through coordinated efforts in talent building, education, and standardization?
    What will participants gain from attending this session? An understanding of global trends and best practices in building inclusive quantum technologies. Insights on bridging regional disparities in public funding and investment to close the "quantum divide" Knowledge on aligning quantum technology policies with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for inclusive and sustainable growth Practical blueprints for facilitating innovation systems, with attention to talent development, education, and standardization in different geographies. A framework for multi-stakeholder collaboration that can guide future policy-making in emerging quantum technologies
    Description:

    This session examines how global innovation systems are driving an equitable and open quantum internet. Experts from diverse regions will share insights on creating inclusive environments through transparent policies, strategic investment, and educational initiatives that build local expertise. The discussion will explore strategies for broadening participation and capacity building to harness the tech leap potential of quantum technologies. Participants will deliberate on best practices and challenges in developing ecosystems that ensure the benefits of a quantum internet are accessible, fairly distributed, and founded on open collaboration.
    Expected Outcomes
    Initiation of a focused dialogue on quantum technologies within the IGF community Generation of actionable insights to inform future sessions, reports, and policy initiatives Publication of a blog article summarizing key conclusions and takeaways Potential collaboration with contributors for a comprehensive report on evolving quantum innovation systems and associated policy frameworks This session will also be aligned with a related lightning talk ‘Breaking Down Quantum Technologies for Policy-Makers’ and will together provide both - the basics and in depth discussion by experts to make sense of the rapid developments in the field of quantum technologies.
    Hybrid Format: We will ensure a balanced, interactive experience for both onsite and online participants by allocating roughly equal speaking time for each group. Moderators will alternate between online and onsite speakers to maintain an engaging dialogue, while an online moderator coordinates with the onsite moderator to manage a centralized ‘common queue’ for questions and comments. This approach creates a unified dialogue that alternates input from both sides. In addition, we will leverage dynamic content sharing—using multimedia presentations, slides, and short video clips accessible to both audiences—to maintain clarity and consistent messaging throughout the session. Complementary online tools, such as interactive. We will also conduct online pre and post event polls to gauge the level of understanding of the audience about the topics discussed.