Centers of Crop Origin occupy a small share of the Earth’s land mass yet contain a disproportionate share of the genetic and biocultural diversity underpinning global food systems. This side event will explore their unique conservation needs as living systems where crop diversity continues to evolve, focusing on monitoring, locally appropriate conservation action, and incentives for custodians. It will also discuss establishing a global Vavilov Network to connect countries, communities, researchers, and organizations to exchange knowledge and strengthen conservation and support.

Co-organizers: International Potato Center (CIP), Alliance Bioversity CIAT, Peru’s Ministry of Environment (MINAM), Mexico’s National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO)

EVENT OBJECTIVES 
- Increase recognition of Centers of Crop Origin and their contribution to global food and agricultural systems. 
- Build momentum for a global Vavilov Network as a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and coordinated action. 

KEY OUTCOMES 
- Agreement on priorities and next steps for developing the Vavilov Network, including potential members, partnerships, knowledge exchange, and collaborative activities. 
- Stronger connections among countries, communities, researchers and conservation organizations working to conserve crop genetic diversity in Centers of Crop Origin.