Promoting research on antimicrobial resistance

The WHO Research Agenda for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Human Health outlines 40 research priorities to be addressed by 2030. These priorities reflect the most critical knowledge gaps in AMR affecting human health. They cover both bacterial and fungal pathogens across the full continuum of care - prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of AMR infections.

The agenda also highlights cross-cutting knowledge needs in AMR epidemiology, disease burden and drivers, policy and regulation, as well as awareness and education. This work is led by the Surveillance, Evidence and Laboratory Strengthening (SEL) Unit at WHO.

In parallel, the Quadripartite organizations - FAO, UNEP, WHO, and WOAH - jointly lead the One Health Priority Research Agenda for AMR. This agenda emphasizes AMR's interconnected and multisectoral nature, calling for collaborative solutions across human, animal, plant, and environmental health. It is structured around five key pillars: transmission, integrated surveillance, interventions, behavioural insights and change, and economics and policy.

Together, these two agendas provide a comprehensive framework to guide AMR research. They serve as strategic tools for countries, research institutions, and funders, helping to align investments and efforts with global and national priorities.

By addressing key gaps and promoting a coordinated research approach, the WHO and One Health AMR research agendas aim to drive impactful and evidence-based solutions to one of the most pressing global health threats.