Proclamation of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology 2025, an Example of Science Diplomacy

Abstract

On June 7, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the year 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025), as a result of long scientific and diplomatic negotiations that began in October 2021, at the initiative of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics. This article gives an account of the origins, preparations and significance of the IYQ2025 declaration and offers a reflection on the diplomatic negotiations undertaken. 

The celebration of the centenary of the first breakthroughs in modern quantum mechanics provides a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of quantum science and technology in our lives and its transformative impact on society. Hence the need for each country to develop its own capabilities in this field, both scientific, technological and productive, in order to contribute to scientific progress and, at the same time, to take advantage of its benefits for society and national development.