On February 21, 2025, the Open Quantum Institute (OQI) and UNESCO co-hosted an inauguration event for the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) at the Geneva Conservatory of Music. According to a CERN report, over 100 policymakers, diplomats, scientists, and educators attended the event, which followed the official IYQ opening ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on February 4.
Enrica Porcari, Head of CERN’s Information Technology department, said UNESCO and OQI had reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that quantum technology advancements remain inclusive, secure, and beneficial to humanity. During the event, OQI and UNESCO called upon member states, scientific institutions, and civil society to collaborate in realizing the potential of quantum science.
OQI serves as a participating partner in the IYQ and a leading project coordinator for key events around Geneva throughout 2025. Planned activities include regional events, hackathons, and the Quantum Diplomacy Game across multiple continents.