On June 7, 2024, the United Nations proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). This initiative aims to increase public awareness of quantum science and its applications. The year 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the development of quantum mechanics, a milestone supported by numerous national scientific societies and international unions.
The proposal for IYQ was led by Mexico and endorsed by UNESCO’s Executive Board in May 2023, followed by UNESCO General Conference approval in November 2023, co-sponsored by nearly 60 countries. In May 2024, Ghana formally submitted a draft resolution to the U.N. General Assembly, leading to the official declaration on June 7, 2024.
The IYQ Steering Committee plans global initiatives and events to engage diverse audiences, emphasizing quantum science’s critical role in addressing the U.N.’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The International Year aims to inspire the next generation of quantum pioneers and highlight quantum science’s influence on technology, policy, economy, and culture.
More information about the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology can be found on their website here.
June 13, 2024