Ethical Notice#

ETHICAL NOTICE#

Last updated: 16/09/2025

1. Purpose and Scope#

This document expresses the ethical intent and community values of the TQEC (Topological Quantum Error Correction) project. Important: This is not a license. The sole legal license governing this software is the Apache License 2.0.

Nothing in this document alters or restricts the rights granted under that license.

The TQEC (Topological Quantum Error Correction) library is an open-source software project made available for the advancement of large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computing, particularly based on surface code and lattice surgery.

This library is distributed to promote academic, educational, and civilian research. Its open accessibility reflects the contributors’ commitment to transparency, scientific progress, and global collaboration.

2. Permitted Uses#

You may use, modify, and distribute this software under the terms of the Apache License 2.0. The following activities are consistent with the intent of this project:

  • Academic or scientific research

  • Educational instruction and student use

  • Civilian research and development

  • Open collaboration within the quantum computing community

3. Prohibited Uses#

The following uses are inconsistent with the intent of this project:

  • Military, defense, or weapons-related development

  • Surveillance, intelligence gathering, or national security infrastructure

  • Dual-use technologies that may serve both civilian and military purposes

  • Applications that violate international human rights, academic integrity, or ethical standards

While these are not legal prohibitions, the maintainers request that users and contributors refrain from engaging in, supporting, or facilitating such activities.

4. Openness and Research Context#

This software:

  • Is published,

  • Results from fundamental research,

  • Is distributed freely without access restrictions,

  • It is not designed for use in any prohibited military or dual-use context,

  • Is distributed without access limitations or commercial restrictions,

  • Contains no encryption, surveillance, or defense-related functionality, and

  • Is not intended for any dual-use or sensitive application.

Important: These manifestations apply only to the original, open-source version of TQEC.

All users and contributors are solely responsible for verifying compliance with relevant export, import, sanctions, and dual-use laws in their jurisdiction.

5. Contributor Certification#

By contributing to this repository, you affirm your support for the following principles:

  • You have the legal right to make the contribution.

  • Your submission does not knowingly violate export control laws or proprietary rights.

  • You are not acting on behalf of any military or surveillance-related organization.

  • You acknowledge and respect the ethical values expressed in this notice.

6. Disclaimer of Warranty and Liability#

This software is provided “AS IS”, without any express or implied warranties, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement.

The maintainers and contributors accept no liability for:

  • Damage or loss resulting from the use or misuse of this software.

  • Errors in compilation or simulation.

  • Indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.

  • Legal consequences arising from unauthorized or unlawful use.

Use of this software is at your sole risk and responsibility.

7. Final Remarks#

TQEC is part of a shared global effort to advance fault-tolerant quantum computing for peaceful and ethical applications. We welcome collaboration from researchers, educators, and institutions who share this vision.