The II Italian Agroforestry Forum at AEMED 2025 in Sicily
Organised by the Sicilian Coordination for Agroecology, AIDA (Italian Association of Agroecology),
and EURAF member, association AIAF (Italian Agroforestry Association), the first International Congress of Mediterranean Agroecology AEMED 2025, 9-12 June Agrigento (Italy), brought together a vibrant
and diverse group of researchers, farmers, technicians, and representatives from agricultural
associations and nonprofit organisations.
It was a great opportunity to connect with experiences and expertise from all around the
Mediterranean. It also helped bring fresh energy to the conversation around agroforestry in an
international setting. This exchange took place during a dedicated session of the Second National
Agroforestry Forum, held over the first two days of the congress.
AIAF also helped organise a guided visit to the beautiful “Giardino della Kolymbethra” and the
almond groves in the Valley of the Temples, part of a day focused on exploring local farms and
agroecological experiences.
The technical and scientific sessions, accompanied by a full program of side events, welcomed
over 400 participants from 28 countries. Talks focused on agroforestry emphasised the essential
role of trees and their interactions with crops and livestock highlighting their importance in
tackling climate change, both in fertile areas and in more vulnerable parts of the Mediterranean.
Noteworthy presentations also addressed the economic sustainability of agroforestry systems.
Beyond the scientific aspects, the congress stood out as a powerful moment of openness and
dialogue. It welcomed participants from all over the world, including countries currently facing
serious conflicts. In this spirit, the event became a space for connection and listening reaffirming
values like reason, solidarity, and brotherhood, values we need now more than ever. AIAF proudly
supported this spirit, emphasising the importance of nurturing human relationships as a key
foundation for peaceful coexistence.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the institutions and all the individuals who helped organise and
run the event with special gratitude to the Sicilian Coordination for Agroecology whose dedication
and hard work made the congress a real success.
