  Topological quantum computation started as a niche area of research aimed at
employing particles with exotic statistics, called anyons, for performing
quantum computation. Soon it evolved to include a wide variety of disciplines.
Advances in the understanding of anyon properties inspired new quantum
algorithms and helped in the characterisation of topological phases of matter
and their experimental realisation. The conceptual appeal of topological
systems as well as their promise for building fault-tolerant quantum
technologies fuelled the fascination in this field. This `focus on' brings
together several of the latest developments in the field and facilitates the
synergy between different approaches.
