The Mediterranean region is home to about 25,000 plant species, of which 13,000 are endemic (not found anywhere else on Earth) and has been recognised by Myers and collaborators as a biodiversity hotspot that is suffering an exceptional loss of habitat. Mediterranean agriculture, forests and other environments are seriously threatened by numerous quarantine and emerging pests, and their negative impacts is expected to increase due to the acceleration of global trade and to climate change which, respectively, favour the movement of these organisms over long distances and facilitate their adaptation to new environments. 

The strengthening of research in the field of plant health is one of the main challenges that countries in the Mediterranean region have to address. The diversity of priorities both in terms of pests and in terms of infrastructures and skills has weaken the impact of national efforts, but plant health challenges require rethinking of the organization of research activities in all countries and their coordination in order to increase efficiency and impact. 

The CIHEAM-Bari and Euphresco Network for phytosanitary research coordination and funding are organizing a Regional Consultation on the Plant Health Research Priorities for South Europe and Mediterranean Region on 11 July 2025. This event is an opportunity for high-level officials from organisations involved in policymaking, research funding and research implementation in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean to meet, exchange views, discuss and identify common plant health research priorities in the region.