A new Policy Forum article in Science co-authored by LML member Prof. Mateo Aboy proposes a “standards-first” approach to governing emerging quantum technologies. The paper, Quantum technology governance: A standards-first approach, is authored by Prof. Aboy alongside Urs Gasser (Technical University of Munich), I. Glenn Cohen (Harvard Law School), and Mauritz Kop (Stanford University).
Quantum technologies – from secure communications to advanced sensing and simulation – are developing rapidly, with major implications for innovation, security, and global competition. The authors argue that, at this early stage ‘standards offer a flexible, globally harmonised path to govern quantum technologies while preserving innovation, security and international cooperation’.
The article surveys ongoing but often less-recognised standardisation initiatives by organisations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). It points to the establishment of the ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee on Quantum Technologies and related projects as significant steps towards a coordinated international framework.
Prof. Aboy and his co-authors propose the development of a Quantum Technology Quality Management System (QT-QMS), integrating ethical, legal and societal considerations with established risk management principles. Such a system, they suggest, could guide responsible innovation, simplify future regulatory efforts and ensure global interoperability as quantum technologies mature.
In scientific and policy circles, Science is one of the world’s most prestigious journals. Its highly selective review process means that publication signals exceptional quality and broad relevance, giving the paper a prominent platform to influence international debates on quantum technology governance.
The full article is available here.