United Nations SecurityCouncil

COMMITTEE GUIDE

Implications of Quantum Computing on global security and geopolitical stability

CIRS MUN | UNSC | [Link]@[Link]
Letter from the Dias ​

Esteemed Delegates,​
It is our pleasure to welcome you all to the Security Council of CIRSMUN’25. We are Jayam Mangalam Modi,
Moksh Surana and Lokk [Link] committee which we are going to chair is The United Nations Security
Council. The United Nations Security Council convenes at a defining moment. We are here to address an issue
that stands to reshape the very landscape of global security and geopolitical stability and the agenda is
‘Implications of Quantum Computing on global security and geopolitical stability’. This is not a distant
threat or a theoretical exercise. The rapid advancement of quantum computing demands our immediate and
focused attention.

This emerging technology, capable of calculations exponentially faster than classical computers, presents us
with a dual challenge and opportunity. On one hand, it holds the potential to revolutionize fields like medicine,
materials science, and sustainable energy, offering solutions to some of humanity's most pressing [Link]
delving deeper into the research, you will be better equipped to contribute meaningful insights and engage
actively in the conference discussions. We, as the chairs of the committee, also want the committee to foster
discussions regarding certain specific topics which are of grave importance to the agenda currently and thus the
guide is structured to focus primarily on such topics. Although the guide may highlight specific topics for
debate and discussion. This guide is an overview and a starting point for your research into the committee. You
are expected to do more research beyond the guide itself. Tanking an extra mile is further expected from you for
you are in the UNSC. The judgment is going to be stricter and the evaluation more scrutinised. We highly
suggest that you read the book ’Chip War’ by Chris Miller. The daise is always ready to help you in your
research and go the extra mile. You are free to reach out to us by mail. We look forward to a very diplomatic
and engaging dialogue between the delegates.

Jayam Mangalam Modi, Moksh Surana and Lokk Viswaveda

Directors of the United Nations Security Council.

CIRSMUN 25
Committee Procedures

As chairs of UNSC, we would like to remind you of certain key norms to observe during committee sessions.
Delegates are required to exhibit a professional and respectful demeanor during the conference. Abuse, whether
verbal or physical, towards delegates or their representative countries will not be condoned and acted upon. This
could pertain to any type of racism, hate speech or unparliamentary language. A major breach of these
regulations may result in the instant expulsion of a delegate from their committee. Unparliamentary language in
speeches, caucuses, or chits is strictly prohibited and will result in serious repercussions. Also the delegates are
expected to act diplomatically in all situations and always in line with the historical, national and international
policies of their respective delegations.

We would like to highlight that the goal of Model UN is to find practical solutions to the challenges presented.
To accomplish that goal, partnership and communication among delegations is essential. Delegates are
encouraged to sustain geopolitical tensions between nations, foster a competitive atmosphere, and achieve a
successful conclusion through debate .The Committee also doesn’t accept exaggeration of facts or tampering
with facts while trying to achieve a greater recognition from other delegates. Any fact or information presented
to the committee by any delegate can be questioned by other delegates or by the chairs in seemingly extreme
exaggeration of data. The delegate presenting the information can be also asked to verify the source of his or her
fact presented, if found to be from a non trust-worthy source or imaginary then the delegate presenting the
information shall be punished by deducting their points.

Lastly, to guarantee equal treatment for all the delegates, no technology of any kind may be used during official
discussion. Technology use will be allowed during unmoderated caucuses, however it is anticipated that
delegates will only utilize their equipment for committee-related activities(any other activity such as gaming,
watching videos etc. are considered violation to the norms and any delegate caught doing so will face
immediate consequences with their technological equipment confiscated till the next committee session and a
warning from the dias). Serious consequences will ensue from any breach of this regulation.
The Security Council

Introduction

The Security Council, like any other United Nations organ, possesses its own distinct history, mandate,
functions, and powers. As a cornerstone of the United Nations, the Security Council bears the primary
responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Established by the UN Charter in 1945, its core
mission is to prevent conflict, address threats to peace, and promote stability worldwide. Composed of 15
Member States, including five permanent members with veto power, the Council serves as a crucial platform for
addressing global security challenges and taking action to uphold international law. It can authorize
peacekeeping operations, impose sanctions, and even approve the use of force when necessary. The Security
Council is supported by various subsidiary bodies and benefits from the expertise and resources of the wider
UN system. It stands as a vital instrument for collective security and the pursuit of a more peaceful world.

History
The vision for the UN Security Council emerged from the devastation of World War II, as the Allied powers
recognized the urgent need for a global body to prevent future conflicts. Initial discussions at the Dumbarton
Oaks Conference in 1944 laid the groundwork for its structure and function. These ideas were further refined at
the Yalta Conference in 1945, shaping the concept of collective security within the United Nations. The Security
Council was formally established with the ratification of the UN Charter on October 24, 1945.

Initially composed of eleven members, including the five permanent members with veto power, the Council's
early years were marked by the Cold War's emergence. Despite the challenges of political division, the Security
Council played crucial roles in post-war crises and the establishment of peacekeeping operations. The
expansion of UN membership led to an increase in the Council's size in 1965, reaching its current fifteen
members.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th and into the 21st century, the Security Council has addressed diverse
threats to international peace and security. The Council continues to adapt its strategies to fulfill its primary
responsibility for maintaining global peace and security under the UN Charter.
Mandate, Functions and Powers
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is the cornerstone of the UN's efforts to maintain international
peace and security. Its mandate, enshrined in the UN Charter, centers on preventing conflict, peacefully
resolving disputes, and establishing the necessary conditions for sustained peace worldwide. This involves a
proactive approach to identifying potential threats, mediating conflicts, and deploying resources to stabilize
volatile regions. The Council's overarching aim is to foster a secure and stable international environment
conducive to cooperation and development.

The functions of the UNSC are diverse and strategically focused on achieving its mandate. It investigates
situations that could threaten international peace, recommends methods for peaceful dispute resolution, and
determines when a threat to peace, breach of peace, or act of aggression exists. Crucially, the Council can
authorize enforcement measures, ranging from economic sanctions and arms embargoes to the use of military
force when peaceful means are insufficient. Furthermore, the UNSC establishes subsidiary bodies like
peacekeeping operations and sanctions committees to implement its resolutions and address specific challenges.
It also plays a role in the admission of new UN members and the appointment of the Secretary-General.

The powers held by the UNSC distinguish it within the UN system. Its resolutions, particularly those under
Chapter VII of the Charter, are legally binding on all member states. The exclusive authority to authorize the
use of force for maintaining or restoring international peace grants the Council significant leverage. The power
to impose sanctions offers a coercive tool short of military intervention. Additionally, the UNSC can refer
situations involving grave international crimes to the International Criminal Court. The veto power held by the
five permanent members, while sometimes a source of deadlock, underscores their significant responsibility in
maintaining global security. These powers collectively position the UNSC as a central actor in addressing
threats to international peace and security.
 Agenda :
Implications of Quantum Computing on Global Security and
Geopolitical Stability
Quantum Computing is a new age of computing in which the bits(1s and 0’s) are in multiple different states. This
exponentially increases the speed at which one can calculate numbers. Latest quantum computing chips are much
more powerful than a bunarry chip the size of earth. Due to such power they possess, this technology poses a
great threat to global security and global order.

There are multiple threats which Quantum Computing can pose.

Encryption
CRCQ’s or cryptographically relevant quantum computer. These types of QC’s are meant to break encryption and
access all public domain information from anywhere in the world. These could pose serious concerts to Data
Security through countries and government organisations

In addition to this ‘Harvest Now and Decrypt later’ is a tactic which though today is not a concern, but could
cause devastation in the upcoming years. All of this points to ‘Q-DAY’ the day a quantum computer is able to
decrypt information we use to keep our internet and public domain secure.

GeoPolitical
The immense power QC holds can increase tensions between countries, like the way we see with nuclear
weapons. This technology will in all possibilities only increase the probability of a world ending situation.

Specie Endangerment
NASA had pulled the plug on its Quantum Computing programme because of the fact that the computer had
started to give unimaginable outputs, and challenge the conventional way of thinking.

The very power that the integration of Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence promises, could present a
profound challenge to humanity as a whole. Integration of Quantum Computing with Artificial Intelligence would
open up all possibilities for unimaginable computation that is unprecedented for.
Disparities
Countries with big pockets are ahead in the Race of Quantum Computing, and with each passing second they
improve their technology. Due to the mathematical power which comes with QC, countries can grow
exponentially in the fields of Finance, Pharmaceuticals and defence etc. This will only go ahead to increase
disparities between countries and result in a much more strained globe.

Defence
In the sector of defence QC can mean a whole different type of warfare. Not only improved weapons or data
hackers. QC implies that countries can R&D and exponentially increase the precision accuracy and deadliness of
weapons, increasing the list of world ending situations. Biological and chemical development has seen growth at
an unseen rate. These also pose problems and concerns on the lines of Bio-Warfare and Chemical-Warfare

The UNSC must address this unprecedented growth of power and technology to ensure global order and stability.

History of Quantum Computing: Key Milestones and Challenges

The journey of quantum computing, and the challenges it presents, can be traced through several pivotal
developments:

1.​ 1980s: Conceptual Foundations. Richard Feynman and David Deutsch were the scientists who set
up the ground work to theorised the existence or possibility of such computers.​

2.​ 1994: Shor's Algorithm. Peter Shor developed an algorithm capable of efficiently factoring large
numbers, therefore exposing a potential vulnerability in widely used RSA encryption.​

3.​ 1996: Grover's Algorithm. Lov Grover's algorithm demonstrated quantum computing's potential in
data mining and information retrieval from unstructured databases.​

4.​ 2001: Early Quantum Computer. Stanford and IBM collaboratively developed a 7-bit quantum
computer using NMR technology, successfully factoring the number 15 using Shor's algorithm,
confirming the concept's practical feasibility.​

5.​ 2007: Estonia Cyberattack. This was a nation wide cyber attack. This showed the vulnerability of
technology to hackers and completely crippled the digital infrastructure of the country.
 6.​ 2010: China's Quantum Communication Investment. China initiated significant investment in
quantum communication, conducting early Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) experiments over
fiber-optic networks, signaling a strategic focus.​

7.​ 2014: Heartbleed Bug. The Heartbleed bug exposed critical weaknesses in OpenSSL encryption,
raising concerns about the future quantum decryption of legacy systems.​

8.​ 2016: Micius Satellite Launch. China launched the Micius satellite, achieving the first
quantum-encrypted communication over 1,200 km.​

9.​ 2018: U.S. National Quantum Initiative Act. the US allocated 1.2 billion dollars for R&D, mainly
driven by the Chinese advancements.​

10.​2019: Google's "Quantum Supremacy" Claim. Google asserted "quantum supremacy" with its
53-qubit Sycamore processor, demonstrating a computational feat that would be intractable for
classical supercomputers, though it had very limited practical applications.​

11.​2020: SolarWinds Hack. This was a huge cyber-security breach into US federal systems. Resulting
in the theft of sensitive information and overall exposure of the vulnerability of information.​

12.​2021: IBM's Eagle Processor & "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later." IBM introduced the 127-qubit
Eagle processor, advancing scalable quantum hardware. Reports emerged of adversaries collecting
encrypted data for future quantum decryption.​

13.​2022: Ukraine Cyberattacks. Alleged Russian cyberattacks on Ukraine's infrastructure underscored

the escalating threat of cyber warfare, which quantum computing is poised to amplify.​

14.​2023: UK's National Quantum Strategy. The UK committed £2.5 billion over a decade to its
national quantum strategy, motivated by cybersecurity vulnerabilities and geopolitical competition.​

15.​2024: Quantum-Related Cyber Incident. A reported quantum-related cyber incident, attributed to a

non-state actor, allegedly exploited a prototype quantum algorithm to bypass traditional encryption
in a financial institution; details remain classified.​

16.​2025: Advanced Quantum Hardware & Threats. China developed a room-temperature photonic
quantum chip, enhancing QKD networks. Microsoft launched the Majorana 1 chip, advancing
fault-tolerant computing. Reports of quantum-enhanced phishing attacks targeting critical
infrastructure surfaced.

Currently, global investment in quantum computing has reached $42 billion, with over 20 countries initiating
national programs. However, restrictive export controls, particularly by nations like the U.S., Canada, and the
Netherlands, are limiting technology sharing and exacerbating geopolitical divisions. Recent cyberattacks,
including the 2020 SolarWinds incident and the 2024 quantum-related breach, emphasize the critical need for a
rapid transition to quantum-resistant cryptography. The absence of international norms governing quantum
technologies, in contrast to existing nuclear arms control frameworks, presents a significant and growing
challenge for the United Nations Security Council.

Actors and Their Stances in Quantum Computing

Key countries and companies are shaping the quantum computing landscape, each with distinct contributions and
geopolitical positions.

Countries:

●​ United States: Prioritizes quantum leadership for national security and economic dominance; leads in
hardware development (IBM, Microsoft); advocates for quantum-safe cryptography and allied frameworks.​

●​ China: Aims for quantum leadership through state-driven innovation; leads in quantum communication
(Micius satellite, QKD network); resists Western regulations, prioritizing technological sovereignty.​

●​ Russia: Focuses on quantum for military and intelligence; developing quantum cryptography; supports
governance protecting sovereignty.​

●​ United Kingdom: Seeks quantum leadership through innovation and alliances; invests significantly in
R&D; supports global standards and export controls.​

●​ France: Pursues European quantum leadership; invests heavily in quantum platforms; advocates for
EU-centric policies.​

●​ Germany: Prioritizes quantum innovation to reduce dependency; invests in quantum cryptography;

advocates for multilateral frameworks.​

●​ Japan: Views quantum as vital for security and economy; develops quantum cryptography; favors allied
cooperation.​

●​ Canada: Promotes quantum innovation and open collaboration; hosts Xanadu (photonic quantum leader);
advocates for responsible development.​
●​ Australia: Leverages quantum for defense and growth; participates in quantum communication; supports
allied collaboration.​

●​ India: Seeks technological sovereignty; advances quantum cryptography and sensing; advocates for
inclusive frameworks.
●​ South Korea: Invests in quantum to bolster technology and economy; develops quantum cryptography;
supports allied cooperation.​

●​ Netherlands: Prioritizes EU quantum innovation; focuses on collaboration and export controls; advocates
for EU-led policies.​

●​ Singapore: Aims to be an Asian quantum hub; fosters innovation and partnerships; supports open
collaboration.​

●​ Israel: Views quantum as a security asset; develops quantum technologies for military and cybersecurity;
prioritizes allied cooperation.​

●​ Sweden: Supports EU quantum initiatives; emphasizes ethical development; advocates for responsible
governance.​

●​ Origin Quantum:Origin Quantum is a Chinese company that aligns with China's national quantum
strategy. Its primary contribution is the development of quantum computers and cryptography specifically for
China's domestic ecosystem and military. Origin Quantum's stance is to prioritize China's technological
sovereignty and resist Western regulations in the quantum field.
Suggested Moderated Caucus Topics​

Moderated caucuses facilitate focused discussions on specific aspects of the agenda. Below are
suggested topics to guide debate:​

1.​ Transitioning to Post-Quantum Cryptography: Strategies for global adoption of

quantum-resistant encryption, including timelines, costs, and support for developing nations.​

2.​ Regulating Quantum-Enabled Cyber Warfare: Developing norms to prevent

quantum-enhanced cyberattacks, drawing on frameworks like the Tallinn Manual.​

3.​ Mitigating Geopolitical Tensions in the Quantum Race: Measures to reduce U.S.-China-Russia
rivalries, such as transparency in R&D or joint research initiatives.​

4.​ Military Applications of Quantum Computing: Balancing innovation in quantum radar, AI, and
simulations with the risk of arms races and escalation.​

5.​ Equitable Access to Quantum Technologies: Proposals for funding, technology sharing, and
capacity-building to prevent a quantum divide.​

6.​ Public-Private Collaboration: Roles of companies like Microsoft and Toshiba in developing
quantum-safe standards and supporting UNSC initiatives.​

7.​ Countering ‘Harvest Now, Decrypt Later’ Attacks: Policies to protect sensitive data and critical
infrastructure from future quantum decryption.​

8.​ Quantum Computing and Economic Stability: Addressing risks to financial systems and
blockchain, and ensuring equitable economic benefits.​
 Research Guide for Beginners
Effective preparation is the cornerstone of a successful MUN experience. Research enables delegates to
represent their country or company authentically and contribute meaningfully to debates to have a very
fruitful discussion. Follow these three levels of research for a better experience:

The United Nations System:

●​ Study the UN Charter, the history of the UNSC, and its procedures.
●​ Review your entity’s role in the UN, including voting history and statements on technology or
cybersecurity.
●​ Explore UN resources: [Link] [Link] [Link]

Country/Company Information:

●​ For countries, research historical, political, economic, and foreign policy contexts using sources
like [Link] or [Link]
●​ For companies, study their quantum computing contributions, corporate strategies, and alignments
with national policies.
●​ Contact embassies or corporate offices for firsthand insights, if possible.

The Agenda:

●​ Analyze quantum computing’s security and geopolitical implications, focusing on your entity’s
stance.
●​ Use this guide as a starting point, supplemented by credible sources like Reuters, UN reports, or
government statements.
●​ Explore subtopics: cryptographic vulnerabilities, cyber warfare, economic impacts, and
governance frameworks.
●​ Study other entities’ positions to anticipate alliances and conflicts.
Things to Remember:
1.​ Follow the procedures(always)
2.​ You are not you, but a delegate of the country, your opinions do not matter. Your opinions are
nothing but the country's opinions.
3.​ Always and always use real numbers and real facts
4.​ There is always a solution to a problem and a negotiation to a crisis.

Specifics Pertaining to the Security Council

I. Special Rules and Procedural Mastery

Delegates are hereby mandated to cultivate a profound familiarity with the CIRS MUN Rules of Procedure,
with particular emphasis on those stipulations uniquely governing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
This includes, but is not limited to, the intricacies of the veto power, quorum requirements, and the distinct
modalities of outcome documents.

II. Quorum and the Exercise of Veto

●​ Standard Majority: A simple majority, necessitating nine affirmative votes, shall suffice for the adoption
of both procedural and substantive decisions.
●​ Substantive Unanimity of the P5: Crucially, substantive decisions additionally mandate the concurring
votes of all Permanent Five (P5) members: the People's Republic of China, the French Republic, the Russian
Federation, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the United States of America. The
exercise of a single P5 veto shall unequivocally block the passage of any resolution.

III. Deliberative Flow of the Committee

The committee shall commence its deliberations with the formal adoption of its agenda. This procedural step
requires the affirmative votes of nine members and is explicitly not subject to the exercise of the veto.
Furthermore, delegates are advised that the UNSC retains the prerogative to address topics beyond the scope of
this guiding document; therefore, a continuous awareness of current developments in the field of quantum
computing is strongly encouraged.

IV. Response to Urgent Circumstances

In the event of exigent circumstances, such as a hypothetical quantum cyberattack, the agenda may be amended
through the affirmative votes of nine members, critically including the concurrence of the P5. Such urgent items
shall immediately assume priority in the committee's proceedings, with deliberations on previously established
topics resuming only upon the satisfactory resolution of the emergent issue.
V. Typologies of Outcome Documents

The UNSC possesses the authority to adopt a variety of formal outcome documents:

●​ Resolutions: These are binding instruments requiring nine affirmative votes, inclusive of P5 concurrence.
Resolutions are typically employed to establish mandates, impose sanctions, or issue formal recommendations.
They conventionally conclude with the declarative phrase, "Decides to remain seized of the matter."​

●​ Presidential Statements: These documents are non-binding in nature and are adopted by consensus. They
serve as a mechanism for expressing the Council's collective view when unanimous agreement on a binding
resolution is unattainable.​

●​ Press Statements: Issued by consensus, these statements are utilized to convey immediate messages
concerning urgent events or to articulate a particular political stance.​

VI. Voting Protocols

Each member state shall possess one vote.

●​ Procedural Matters: Require nine affirmative votes for adoption.​

●​ Substantive Matters: Necessitate nine affirmative votes, coupled with the concurring votes of all P5
members.

It is a fundamental principle that any party directly involved in a dispute under consideration by the Council shall
abstain from casting a vote on resolutions pertaining to that dispute.

Resolution
Resolutions are an important part of any MUN committee or for that matter any UN committee as they are a
documentation of the actions or suggestions proposed by a committee for applying. Thus, resolutions in turn are
the most important documents that can be formulated during a committee. Thus, it is important to go through
previous UNSC resolutions and other UN resolutions to understand how to write a generic resolution.

The resolutions can focus on the following points but are not limited to them- Mediating presence of private
militia groups, possible solutions in terms of change of policies to reduce damage done to human rights, etc..
The Resolutions should always possess valid solutions implementable in the current scenarios and also
signatories or sponsors should understand the stance of their nation before opting for a given resolution as a
signatory or sposons.(Go through the committee guide to get a better understanding of what resolutions are).

Citations
The citations and further reading page contains a list of links. From these various sources, we have compiled
this guide, although not all of the information has been covered. Therefore, you are encouraged to go through
all the links given below, as

it will aid you in your research. A note to all delegates. Wikipedia links are given at the end of the list. Although
it can be used as a starting point, Wikipedia is not counted as a valid source. All information gained from
Wikipedia will have to be cross-verified with other sources.

Conclusion Note
The UNSC’s dynamic environment demands creativity, diplomacy, and rigorous preparation. Quantum
computing’s implications for global security and geopolitical stability present a complex challenge, requiring
delegates to balance innovation with caution. Go beyond this guide, exploring credible sources to craft persuasive
arguments and practical solutions. Your ability to navigate alliances, counter opposition, and draft impactful
resolutions will shape the committee’s success.

We eagerly await your contributions at CIRSMUN 2025. Embrace the challenge, engage in robust debate, and let
your diplomatic skills shine.

Happy researching!​

Jayam Mangalam Modi​

Moksh Srana​
Lok Viswaveda