OQI and UNESCO celebrate the International Year of Quantum in Geneva

On 21st February 2025, over 100 individuals–including policymakers, diplomats, scientists, and educators–gathered to celebrate the launch of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ) in Geneva, following the official Opening Ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris earlier this month. Co-organised by OQI and UNESCO, the celebration took place at the Geneva Conservatory of Music as one of the recognised global IYQ events in 2025. 

With performances from musicians of the Conservatoire intertwining science and culture, the event emphasised the societal impact of quantum technology development. Featuring a series of panel discussions, diplomats engaged in dialogue on the global societal impact of quantum science and technology, examining the challenges and opportunities presented by the technology on a national and international scale. A scientific panel addressed the current gaps in quantum education and explored strategies of how to enhance global learning opportunities.

“Through the inauguration of the IYQ in Geneva, UNESCO and the Open Quantum Institute reaffirmed our commitment to fostering multilateral cooperation, raising public awareness, and driving collective action toward ensuring that advancements in quantum technologies remain inclusive, secure, and beneficial to humanity,” said Enrica Porcari, Head of CERN IT.

A call to action

During the event, OQI and UNESCO called upon all stakeholders—from member states, scientific institutions, academia, civil society, and many others—to actively collaborate in realizing the potential of quantum science and technology to address global challenges while upholding ethical and human rights principles. This call to action encourages everyone to engage in the International Year of Quantum and to advance the development of quantum technology for the benefit of humanity.

Throughout 2025, OQI will be organising key global initiatives—including regional events, hackathons and the Quantum Diplomacy Game across multiple continents. Find out more about our upcoming plans and how you can get involved. 

As an officially recognised global event of the IYQ, OQI and UNESCO would like to thank the support of all IYQ partners.

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All photos by Marc Bader.

This piece was published on the OQI website.