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One in three researchers have no access to quantum research facilities, depriving society of its full potential

PRESS RELEASE   One in three researchers have no access to quantum research facilities, depriving society of its full potential   Paris, 5 May 2026 – One in three researchers have no access to quantum research facilities, heavily limiting its potential in fields including healthcare, computing, cybersecurity and climate modelling, according to a UNESCO report released today. ‘The Quantum Moment: A Global Report, Outcomes of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology’ shows there are stark North-South divides in access to the technology, with Europe and North America holding seven times more quantum science events per country in the past year compared to Africa. Findings also highlight a persistent gender gap, especially among senior level quantum researchers. Read the full report here Quantum computers can explore an enormous number of possible solutions simultaneously – like finding the exit of a maze by testing every path at once, rather than one after another as a classical computer would. Harnessing quantum physics in this way vastly increases computing power, and could revolutionise our ability to resolve certain complex problems such as discovering new drugs, modelling climate systems with far greater accuracy, or significantly improving cyber-security for financial transactions and telecoms.   But without deliberate and coordinated action, the benefits of this transformation risk being concentrated in the hands of a small number of countries, deepening global inequalities rather than addressing them.   “The quantum revolution cannot be a story of a few countries racing ahead while the rest of the world watches. UNESCO’s recently launched Global Quantum Initiative is a concrete response to the findings of this report, and provides a practical roadmap to tackle this striking global inequality. We must act now to bridge this divide and ensure the benefits of quantum technology are shared by all. We call on governments, industry, and the scientific community to join us in building a truly global and equitable quantum future," said Khaled El-Enany, Director-General of UNESCO.   Global momentum, unequal access   The Quantum Moment: A Global Report, Outcomes of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology presents the first comprehensive global assessment of the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). Drawing on data from 1,300 registered quantum science events across 83 countries with direct participation exceeding 1.2 million people, a global survey of 590 experts in 81 countries, and built on contributions from leading international scientific organizations such as the American Physical Society, the report documents both the scale of global interest in quantum science and the depth of the barriers that stand between most countries and meaningful participation in the quantum era.   The data on inequality are stark. UNESCO member states across Europe and North America concentrate seven times more quantum science events – such as conferences, workshops, seminars and hackathons – compared with those in Africa. Nearly one in three researchers report that their institutions have no access to quantum research facilities, while equipment costs are cited as a barrier by two thirds of respondents globally. More than 150 countries have yet to adopt any form of national quantum strategy, even as global public and private investment in quantum science and technology reached USD 55.7 billion as of mid-2025. The concentration of that investment in a small number of economies underscores the urgency of the challenge.   The report also points to a persistent gender gap in quantum-related fields. While women represented approximately 42% of early-career participants in quantum science events, their share declines significantly along the career pathway, to around 16% at senior researcher level and just 12% in leadership positions.   Bridging the divide: a roadmap for an inclusive quantum future   To address this inequality of access, UNESCO launched the Global Quantum Initiative (GQI), a framework for governments, academia, industry and civil society to ensure quantum technologies are developed inclusively and ethically, ensuring no country is excluded from shaping the quantum future.   Concrete action is already underway. Under UNESCO's Remote Access to Lab Equipment Initiative, researchers from the Global South can now access the world's first quantum computer dedicated to healthcare research (IBM Quantum System One in Cleveland, USA) to work on drug discovery, disease modelling and other challenges directly relevant to their countries. The programme illustrates a practical model the GQI aims to replicate and scale: removing the infrastructure barrier not by waiting for every country to build its own quantum facility, but by opening doors to existing ones.   Learn more The Quantum Moment: A Global Report, Outcomes of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology Global Quantum Initiative (GQI) 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ). UNESCO's Remote Access to Lab Equipment Initiative About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions, with a global network of 200 National Commissions. Its Director-General is Khaled El-Enany.   “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0) 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France

UNESCO names 12 new Global Geoparks

PRESS RELEASE   UNESCO names 12 new Global Geoparks   Paris, 23 April 2026 – Today UNESCO designated 12 new geoparks, bringing the total number of sites in the UNESCO Global Geopark Network to 241 in 51 countries. The network now covers an area of over 882,000 km2, equivalent to the size of Venezuela.   Media Corner: descriptions, photos and videos of the 12 new geoparks   The 12 newly designated geoparks are located in China, France, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, the Russian Federation, Tunisia – marking its first geopark – and Uruguay.   "Every rock formation, every canyon and every fossil tells a story that belongs to all humanity. In just ten years, UNESCO Global Geoparks have shown that protecting geological heritage also means advancing science, strengthening education and building local resilience. What unites its 241 sites across 51 countries is not just geological significance, but a shared commitment to pass on knowledge, with local communities at the centre," said Khaled El-Enany, Director-General of UNESCO.   The UNESCO Global Geoparks designation, created in 2015, brings together territories recognized for their rich geological heritage. These rock formations, mountain or volcanic ranges, caves, canyons, fossil sites or ancient desert landscapes each bear witness to our planet’s history, evolution and climate. The sites combine conservation, environmental education and a sustainable approach to development, while also supporting Indigenous Peoples and local communities in promoting their culture and know-how.   Each year, new sites are added to the network by decision of UNESCO’s Executive Board, after an evaluation of the applications by the Global Geoparks Council made up of international experts.   UNESCO continues to promote the programme in areas where geoparks are less common, notably in Africa, the Arab States and Small Island Developing States. UNESCO does this by facilitating expert missions, tailored training sessions and individual consultations on both a national and local scale, to guide the preparation of applications for UNESCO Global Geopark status.   The new UNESCO Global Geoparks are:   China: Changshan UNESCO Global Geopark  China: Mt. Siguniang UNESCO Global Geopark France: Terres d’Hérault UNESCO Global Geopark  Greece: Nisyros UNESCO Global Geopark  Ireland: Joyce Country and Western Lakes Global Geopark  Japan: Miné-Akiyoshidai Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark  Malaysia: Lenggong UNESCO Global Geopark  Malaysia: Sarawak Delta UNESCO Global Geopark  Portugal: Algarvensis UNESCO Global Geopark  Russian Federation: Toratau UNESCO Global Geopark  Tunisia: Dahar UNESCO Global Geopark  Uruguay: Manantiales Serranos UNESCO Global Geopark    About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions, with a global network of 200 National Commissions. Its Director-General is Khaled El-Enany.   “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0) 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France

ISID Book Discussion on India’s High-Tech Leap, Industrial Policy and Future of Innovation | Friday, 24th April, at 15:30 IST

ISID Book Discussion on India’s High-Tech Leap, Industrial Policy and Future of Innovation

Friday, 24th April at 15:30 IST

About the book: This incisive book explores how strategic government support can drive innovation and competitiveness, especially in emerging economies. Sunil Mani highlights India’s industrial successes, such as global IT software services, pharmaceutical industries and sustainable technologies, as well as the drawbacks of their reliance on imports and weak coordination.   Mani investigates how India has used government policies to boost high-tech industries, and assesses a variety of strategies including funding research, tax breaks and promoting local manufacturing. He incorporates in-depth sectoral case studies to present a detailed analysis of high-tech industries and their economic impact. Chapters showcase industry-specific insights and a global comparative approach to reveal lessons on effective state intervention. The book proposes an actionable policy roadmap with concrete steps for India’s high-tech future, from strengthening supply chains and boosting skill advancement to fostering public-private research and development partnerships.   India’s High-Tech Leap, Industrial Policy and Future of Innovation is an enlightening read for scholars and students of industrial policy, innovation studies and economic development, as well as science and technology studies. It is also a beneficial resource for policymakers and practitioners in pharmaceuticals, IT services and renewables for its practical recommendations.

About the author: Prof Sunil Mani, Visiting Professor, Centre for Development Studies, Trivandrum, Kerala and Ahmedabad University, Gujarat, India.

Date: Friday, 24th April 2026 from 3.30 PM onwards Meeting ID: 831 2107 4510 | Passcode: 2026APR24 Register here: https://forms.gle/Q1UzqJ1vpBbjb65x8

Nagesh Kumar, PhD Director https://isid.org.in | nkumar[@]isid.org.in | director[@]isid.org.in

UNESCO sites offer a lifeline to biodiversity, new report shows

PRESS RELEASE   UNESCO sites offer a lifeline to biodiversity, new report shows   Paris, 21 April 2026 – UNESCO's latest report highlights the extraordinary contribution of its sites for both people and nature. While global wildlife populations have declined by 73% since 1970, those within UNESCO-protected areas have remained comparatively stable. These sites represent over 1,000 languages, and a quarter of them overlap with Indigenous Peoples' territories. People and Nature in UNESCO-Designated Sites: Global and Local Contributions is the first report to examine all UNESCO categories – World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, Global Geoparks – as a single network of over 2,260 sites covering more than 13 million km², an area larger than China and India combined.   Press Corner: Full report, executive summary, factsheet   “The findings are clear: UNESCO sites are delivering for both people and nature. Inside these territories, communities thrive, humanity’s heritage endures, and biodiversity is holding on while it collapses elsewhere. By measuring the global value and contributions of these sites, this report reveals what we stand to lose if they are not prioritised. It is an urgent call to scale ambition, recognising UNESCO sites as strategic assets in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss, and investing now to protect ecosystems, cultures, and livelihoods for generations to come," said Khaled El-Enany, UNESCO Director-General.   A vital network under growing pressure   UNESCO-designated sites encompass more than 60% of globally mapped species, with around 40% of these found nowhere else on Earth, the report shows. These sites also store an estimated 240 gigatons of carbon, equivalent to nearly two decades of current global emissions if released, and each year their forests alone account for approximately 15% of the carbon absorbed by forests worldwide.   Yet despite their global significance, these sites are under mounting pressure. Nearly 90% of sites face high levels of environmental stress, and climate-related hazards have increased by 40% in just the last decade. More than one in four UNESCO-designated sites could reach critical tipping points by 2050, with potentially irreversible impacts. Without stronger action, risks include the disappearance of glaciers, coral reef collapse, species displacement, increasing water stress, and forests turning from carbon sinks into carbon sources.   People and livelihoods at the heart of these landscapes   The report also highlights the profound connection of nature and communities in these environments. Together, these sites are home to nearly 900 million people, roughly 10% of the global population. Over 1,000 languages are documented across UNESCO-designated sites, and at least 25% encompass Indigenous Peoples' lands and territories, rising to nearly 50% in Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. Overlaying economic output with UNESCO sites and their surrounding areas, the report finds that around 10% of global GDP is generated in these zones.   Acting now can still make a measurable difference   The report finds that action taken today can significantly reduce future risks: every 1°C of warming avoided could halve the number of UNESCO sites exposed to major disruption by the end of the century. These areas also harbour untapped potential for climate policy: while around 80% of national biodiversity plans include UNESCO sites, only 5% of national climate plans do so.   The report calls for scaling up action through four priorities: restoring ecosystems to rebuild resilience; developing sustainably through increased transboundary cooperation; further integrating UNESCO-designated sites into global climate plans; and governing more inclusively with Indigenous Peoples and local communities.   UNESCO sites are worth investing in   UNESCO-designated sites demonstrate that people and nature can thrive together. From wildlife populations holding stable while the rest of the world’s decline, to conservation successes like the recovery of mountain gorillas in areas affected by armed conflict, these places show what is possible when protection is sustained over time and supported by local communities.   The findings of this report, drawing on partnerships with more than 20 leading research institutions worldwide, highlight the need to scale that ambition, recognising UNESCO-designated not only as conservation areas but also as strategic assets for addressing global environmental and societal challenges. Investing in their protection today means safeguarding irreplaceable ecosystems, living cultures, and the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people for generations to come.   About UNESCO   With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions, with a global network of 200 National Commissions. Its Director-General is Khaled El-Enany.   “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.   More information: www.unesco.org   Press contact François WIBAUX, f.wibaux@unesco.org, +33 (0) 1 45 68 07 46   UNESCO Newsroom All our press releases   Social media

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UNESCO, 7, place de Fontenoy, PARIS, NA FRANCE France