To What Extent the ARIMNet Transnational Programme Has Contributed to the Implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Research and Innovation Area?

Abstract

The Mediterranean countries face common challenges in adapting their agro-systems to climate change and demographic threats. It is on this basis that ARIMNet (Agricultural Research in the Mediterranean Network) programme was implemented by 15 Euro-Mediterranean partners to foster agricultural research and innovation with the support of two successive grants from the European Commission. Our work aims to evaluate the impact of this collaborative work of 10 years over the period (2008–2017) on the implementation of a EURO-MED Research and Innovation Area. Considering ARIMNet as the first regional experience of joint programming and co-funding, it has allowed the funding of 46 research projects in the Mediterranean region with a budget of €25 M. The carried survey with coordinators shows that ARIMNet activities have a positive effect on regional networking, mobility, scientific production, innovation and the construction of a regional common vision regarding societal challenges regarding food security and sustainable agriculture. This transnational programme has consolidated collaboration between EU-MED policymakers and impacted as well national research governance in South Mediterranean countries, as stated by the questionnaire sent to partners from these countries. The ARIMNet experience inspired the current PRIMA initiative (Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area) which represents a step ahead for the reinforcement of the scientific Euro-Mediterranean collaboration in agriculture. The lessons learned from ARIMNet can benefit the Mediterranean and other regions in developing future common science and technology-based approaches to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.