Quantum technology promises groundbreaking advancements in fields such as medical research, security, and environmental risk preparedness. Unlike classical computing, which uses binary bits, quantum computing uses qubits that can perform multiple calculations at once. This could empower quantum computers to drive revolutionary scientific breakthroughs.
Currently, the EU is a leader in quantum research and patent activity. The continent has the highest number of quantum-ready experts, with an average of 231 experts per million inhabitants, and the second-largest public investment in the sector, following China. However, the EU faces lower levels of private investment and an urgent need for increased industrialization and commercialization of quantum technologies.
Furthermore, restrictions on access to research funding and limitations on the export of quantum computing technologies add to the complexity. These restrictions are questionable since quantum technologies depend on global talent, materials, and supply chains. Furthermore, the EU faces additional challenges, including lower levels of private investment compared to the United States and an urgent need for increased industrialisation and commercialisation of quantum technologies. This is why the EU needs a cohesive, large-scale quantum program to avoid fragmentation and the duplication of efforts and resources across the Union.
The Center for the Governance of Change (CGC) at IE University, in partnership with the Center for Future Generations (CFG), has launched the ‘Quantum Policy Lab’. This project aims to equip public and private decision-makers in the EU with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively advance the quantum policy agenda, enabling quantum technologies to reach their full societal potential.
The first phase of this initiative will diagnose barriers and enablers to effective quantum governance in the EU through workshops and interviews with key government officials, industry leaders, technology developers, and researchers who have direct or indirect influence on shaping the quantum policy agenda in the EU.
This phase will also aim to review elements including:
- The level of understanding and literacy among policymakers and industry leaders regarding quantum technologies.
- The critical stages in the quantum supply chain where the EU can take a leading position.
- The alignment (or lack thereof) among different countries and institutions in developing quantum technologies.
This will help European policymakers, academics, and industry representatives better understand the challenges Europe faces in further developing this technology and where it stands in the competition with powers such as the United States and China.
