The good news is that researchers across the globe, including IBM’s research team in Zurich and their trusted global partners, have been actively working alongside governments and regulators to prepare quantum-proof cryptography in anticipation of the quantum era. In August 2024, the United States’ National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) concluded its eight-year-long competition with the official publication of three standardized post-quantum encryption algorithms. These new powerful cryptographic solutions will play a pivotal role in the U.S. government’s mandatory migration to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) by 2035 — a critical step toward ensuring quantum-safe security.
IBM researchers, particularly those based in Europe, have been at the forefront of this effort, contributing significantly to the development of two of the three PQC algorithms selected by NIST. Collaborating with academic and industry partners, they underscore the importance of cooperation and interoperability as cornerstones of long-term security infrastructure.
Efforts in Europe are equally robust. Various member states, EU organizations, and the European Commission are all actively engaged in the field. However, it is crucial that these initiatives converge on a shared, unified mission to foster synergy and create efficient EU-wide strategies for quantum safety.
“As the EU is currently undergoing a holistic effort to harmonize its cybersecurity standards and bring several landmark measures into practice, it should not overlook how and when to prepare for new security challenges in the quantum era.”
Europe must harness its current momentum to better prepare for the security challenges posed by the quantum era. By drawing on its deep pool of expertise, the EU can accelerate its plans to secure quantum safety.
In recent months, the EU has continued to strengthen its cybersecurity framework. In October 2024, the EU passed the Cyber Resilience Act, which advances initiatives such as Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) templates across the region. Additionally, the NIS 2 Directive has pushed critical infrastructure to the top of national security agendas. Furthermore, in early 2025, the Digital Operations Resilience Act (DORA) — focused on strengthening the financial services sector — will come into effect.
“As Europe works to bring overlapping cybersecurity strategies together, it has the opportunity to bolster its quantum-safe planning.”
As multiple cybersecurity frameworks come into greater alignment, Europe finds itself positioned to strengthen its quantum-safe planning, ensuring that industries and organizations across the continent are adequately prepared for both current cybersecurity challenges and those posed by the coming quantum era.
Notably, Europe has played a foundational role in the development of quantum physics, and Europeans continue to lead groundbreaking advancements in the field. IBM’s Quantum Data Center — launched on October 1, 2024, in Ehningen, Germany — is the company’s second global quantum data center. This facility will support European partners on their quantum journey and soon offer access to IBM’s highest performing quantum chip to date, the IBM Quantum Heron. Over 80 European organizations in industries like finance, telecommunications, and manufacturing — part of the IBM Quantum Network — are now leveraging quantum algorithms to explore new opportunities for their respective sectors.
European governments are exceptionally well-placed to encourage rapid adoption of quantum technologies while fostering an environment of cooperation, harmonization and leadership. Advancing PQC preparedness, though challenging, is crucial. Now is the right time to engage in international discussions, share benchmarks, and emphasize interoperability between trusted partners.
Post-quantum cryptography is ready. Bad actors aren’t waiting. Europe shouldn’t either. To stay ahead, it’s vital that Europe acts now.
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