The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) hosted a side event to the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on security of and in the use of information and communications technologies (ICTs).
Quantum technology is considered as one of the most disruptive innovations on the horizon. While a lot of uncertainty remains on the exact timelines and scale at which this technology will be diffused, it is already recognized by experts across the technical, scientific and policy communities as the cause of significant transformation and disruption in the information security domain, among others.
An increasing number of Member States have flagged in the OEWG the potential new threats emerging from quantum technologies. The UN Secretary-General, in his annual report on Current developments in science and technology and their potential impact on international security and disarmament efforts, also highlights the potential risks emerging from quantum technologies. Despite this increased interest, little discussion exists on this topic, at least among States.
This technology breakfast will provide an opportunity for States to learn more about quantum technologies and their potential impact on cybersecurity, ask questions to experts and engage in discussions on this fascinating, yet still not fully understood, technology.
EVENT RECORDING
A recording of this event can be found on our Youtube Channel, and below.
When and Where
25 July 2023, 8:30-9:30 AM EST. Hybrid format – Conference Room 8, United Nations Headquarters, New York, and online. Breakfast was provided to those attending in person. If attending online, please consult this website to find your local time.
Speakers
- Dr Giacomo Persi Paoli, Head of Programme, Security and Technology, UNIDIR
- Dr Zhanna L. Malekos Smith, Non-resident Fellow, UNIDIR and Visiting Fellow, Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs
Participants
We welcome OEWG delegations and cyber experts, as well as members of the multi-stakeholder community including industry, civil society, and intergovernmental organizations (ECOSOC status). Please kindly note that UNIDIR is not able to grant access to the United Nations Headquarters for those who are not already in possession of the UN accreditation.
For any questions, please contact the UNIDIR Security and Technology Programme (sectec-unidir@un.org).