The OECD Global Forum on Technology (GFTech) held its first dedicated quantum technology event, titled “Future in Flux: Global Issues and National Strategies for Responsible Quantum Technology Development,” on November 27–28, 2023, in Paris. The event brought together 340 participants from 50 countries, according to the GFTech event page, including leading technologists and managers of national quantum programs.
Sessions covered the state of quantum computing, responsible innovation, skills and inclusiveness, and national quantum strategies. Keynote speakers included physicist Jim Al-Khalili, who provided an overview of the second quantum revolution, and representatives from national quantum initiatives including Israel’s Innovation Authority.
Following the event, the OECD established its GFTech Focus Group on Quantum Technologies in December 2023. The focus group convened approximately 50 research, industry, and policy experts from 25 countries to collect evidence and contribute insights for strategic dialogue and international cooperation on quantum technologies. Rather than building consensus, the group was tasked with gathering evidence, insights, and good practices for human-centric governance of quantum technologies.