The European Commission’s Network and Information Systems (NIS) Cooperation Group has initiated a public consultation to gather feedback on its newly published roadmap aimed at establishing a quantum-safe digital infrastructure in Europe. This initiative seeks contributions from providers of critical infrastructure, industry stakeholders, academics, and the general public to refine the strategy for a transition towards quantum-resistant systems. The consultation remains open until September 29, with responses poised to significantly shape the forthcoming phases of this critical development.
Participants are urged to propose enhancements to the roadmap, addressing sector-specific challenges and offering concrete suggestions to bolster the transition to quantum-resistant technologies. Suggestions of open-source tools or frameworks that could benefit the broader community are also welcome. However, the consultation specifically excludes submissions aimed at commercial product promotion. A selected committee will review the contributions, and those providing particularly valuable insights may be invited to expand on their proposals.
This call to action follows the release of the “Coordinated Implementation Roadmap for the Transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)” by the Work Stream on PQC of the NIS Cooperation Group, which is actively working to support the migration to post-quantum cryptographic systems. Quantum computing is expected to revolutionize the field of cryptography by introducing new potential threats to data security, prompting the European Commission to actively engage with relevant stakeholders to prepare for a post-quantum cryptographic world. The ongoing efforts are part of a broader strategy to address these future challenges, ensuring that digital infrastructures remain secure as quantum technologies mature.
Further components of the Quantum Strategy involve launching the Quantum Europe Research and Innovation Initiative. This significant collaborative venture between the EU and Member States is designed to support foundational research alongside the development of applications crucial for both public and industrial sectors. The strategy also encompasses the establishment of a quantum design facility and the inauguration of six pilot lines for quantum chips, supported by public funding of up to €50 million, which aims to transition scientific advancements from prototypes to manufacturable products.
Moreover, the strategy includes the development of a pilot facility for the prospective European Quantum Internet. As part of the initiative, the network of Quantum Competence Clusters across Europe is being expanded, and plans are underway to establish the European Quantum Skills Academy in 2026. Additionally, there is a concerted effort to develop a Quantum Technology Roadmap in collaboration with the European Space Agency, contributing to the European Armament Technological Roadmap.
This extensive initiative demonstrates the EU’s commitment to advancing Europe’s technological edge in quantum computing while ensuring that the transition to this new era of technology does not compromise the integrity or security of existing digital infrastructures. The call for public input is just one of many steps designed to involve a wide array of stakeholders in crafting a secure and quantum-resilient future.
