The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) hosted a side event to the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies (ICTs).

Quantum technology is considered as one of the most disruptive innovations on the horizon. While a lot of uncertainty remains on the exact timelines and scale at which this technology will be diffused, it is already recognized by experts across the technical, scientific and policy communities as the cause of significant transformation and disruption in the information security domain, among others.

An increasing number of Member States have flagged in the OEWG the potential new threats emerging from quantum technologies. The UN Secretary-General, in his annual report on Current developments in science and technology and their potential impact on international security and disarmament efforts, also highlights the potential risks emerging from quantum technologies. Despite this increased interest, little discussion exists on this topic, at least among States.

This technology breakfast will provide an opportunity for States to learn more about quantum technologies and their potential impact on cybersecurity, ask questions to experts and engage in discussions on this fascinating, yet still not fully understood, technology.  

EVENT RECORDING

A recording of this event can be found on our Youtube Channel. This is a re-post of an article from the UNIDIR