Envisioning Diversity and Inclusion for Quantum Software Engineering

Quantum software is a key enabler for the revolutionary applications promised by Quantum Computing (QC), a field poised to transform industries and attract significant investment. However, quantum software engineering (QSE) faces unique ethical challenges that must be addressed early to ensure responsible and equitable development. This vision paper explores the role of ethics and specifically diversity and inclusion (D\&I) considerations in QSE, emphasising the importance of embedding these principles throughout the quantum software lifecycle. Neglecting D\&I could lead to power imbalances, algorithmic biases, and limited innovation, ultimately hindering QC's potential to benefit society equitably. By drawing lessons from classical software and artificial intelligence, we discuss our vision for integrating D\&I into QSE, for a more transparent, fair, and accountable future for quantum technologies. This paper aims to initiate discussion within the research community and lay the foundation for the ethical development of quantum software that promotes social equity.