We consider a graph having a single quantum system sitting at each node. The entire compound system evolves in discrete time steps by iterating a global evolution G. Moreover we require that this global evolution G be unitary, in accordance with quantum theory, and that this global evolution G be causal, in accordance with special relativity. By causal we mean that information can only ever be transmitted at a bounded speed, the speed bound being quite naturally that of one edge of the underlying graph per iteration of G. We show that under these conditions the operator G is local; i.e. it can be put into the form of a quantum circuit made up with more elementary, unitary gates -- each acting solely upon neighbouring nodes.
Joint work with Vincent Nesme and Reinhard Werner.