From 9 to 13 March 2026, the twentieth session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM-20) of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) took place at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome.

The IPPC provides the global framework for protecting plant health and supports the work of National Plant Protection Organizations worldwide. Its implementation is overseen by the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM), which promotes international cooperation, develops International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) and strengthens national phytosanitary systems. The annual CPM meeting brings together contracting parties and stakeholders to advance global collaboration on plant health. CIHEAM Bari takes part in the CPM every year, presenting its latest innovations in plant health.

During the session, the FAO Atrium hosted two special initiatives: the Poster Exhibition – “Stories of Successes and Challenges: Innovation in Implementing IPPC Instruments and Tools”  (10–12 March 2026), dedicated to innovative approaches to implementing IPPC standards and tools, and the IPPC Plant Health Innovation Fair (13 March 2026), showcasing practical, field-based solutions developed by National and Regional Plant Protection Organizations.

Within the Poster Exhibition, the Institute showcased two initiatives reflecting its commitment to innovation and capacity building in plant health:

• RIGENESI – Science Diplomacy & Capacity Building for Mediterranean Plant Health Emergencies, developed in collaboration with the Plant Protection Service of the Apulia Region, highlighting a coordinated approach to strengthening preparedness, prevention and response to plant health threats in the Mediterranean region.

• Multi-source IoT System Prototype for the Surveillance of Xylella fastidiosa, an advanced technological solution designed to support early detection and phytosanitary monitoring through integrated digital tools.

Through its active engagement in the CPM, CIHEAM Bari reaffirms its commitment to strengthening international cooperation, advancing innovation, and enhancing plant health resilience across the Mediterranean region and beyond.