Women, Innovation and Sustainable Agri-Food: A Symposium for Action in the Mediterranean

On the occasion of International Women's Day, we are pleased to announce the International Symposium on Women's Empowerment through Innovation in Mediterranean Agri-Food Systems to be held in Zaragoza (Spain) from 10 to 12 June 2025. Organised and hosted by the CIHEAM Zaragoza, in collaboration with the CIHEAM General Secretariat and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), and with the support of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), this scientific, technical and professional event will bring together partners from the FAO, IFAD, the OECD, the European Commission, ICARDA, IWMI, PRIMA, Global Water Partnership Med as well as players from civil society, the business world and the innovation sector.

AGENDA

In a contexte of climate challenges, resource scarcity and the growing need to feed an expanding population, this symposium aims to explore the crucial role of women in transforming Mediterranean agri-food systems towards greater sustainability and equity. Recognising women as key players in these systems, the event will highlight their essential contributions to the inclusion, resilience and prosperity of communities. It aims to be a catalyst for concrete solutions to advance the empowerment of women.

Key Objectives of the symposium

• To identify and examine the main barriers faced by women in entrepreneurship and innovation in agricultural and rural contexts, with the aim of developing innovative and sustainable projects;
• To analyse international and national work programmes designed to enhance women-led innovation ecosystems;
• To strengthen alliances between international organisations, public institutions, civil society and the private sector to drive innovation through cooperation.

A Rich and Diverse Programme Focused on Solutions

The symposium will offer a comprehensive and dynamic programme, firmly orientated towards identifying and promoting effective solutions for the empowerment of women in the Mediterranean agri-food sector. It will include :

• Plenary sessions led by high-level experts from international and national organisations, including the FAO, IFAD, OECD, European Commission, ICARDA, IWMI, as well as distinguished representatives from civil society and the business world;
• Round tables addressing the major challenges faced by women in the Mediterranean agri-food sector, as well as their needs in terms of education, economic opportunities and access to resources to foster their empowerment;
• Case studies showcasing inspiring examples of women's empowerment and innovation in the agri-food sector in Spain and the wider Mediterranean region, with a special focus on initiatives led by women entrepreneurs;
• An interactive workshop dedicated to social and technological innovation for women entrepreneurs in the agri-food value chain. This workshop will provide a platform for presenting innovative solutions, sharing experiences and networking, including a pitch session highlighting women-led entrepreneurial initiatives;
• Field visits to discover local initiatives led by women, showcasing real success stories and impact, and illustrating the transformative role of women as agents of change in their communities.

A Call for Cooperation and Action Towards Concrete Solutions

This symposium is intended to be a catalyst for cooperation and action, fostering dialogue and partnerships between among all relevant players. By bringing together key actors from the public and private sectors, international organisations, research institutions, representatives of civil society, entrepreneurs and professionals, the event aims to strengthen synergies and promote concrete, sustainable solutions for the empowerment of women and innovation in Mediterranean agri-food systems.