AMR Crisis: 4.7M Deaths & Rising Threat

In 2021, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was linked to more than 4.7 million deaths worldwide, underscoring the critical need for a unified "One Health" approach across human, animal, and environmental health sectors. Experts speaking at the Global Media Forum on AMR highlighted ongoing challenges in financing, surveillance, and coordination. These issues continue to impede global efforts to combat the growing threat of superbugs.

Leading international organizations are implementing strategies to address AMR. The updated Global Action Plan on AMR for 2026-2036 aims to bolster prevention measures, enhance surveillance systems, promote responsible antimicrobial use, and secure sustainable financing. World leaders have committed to a significant goal: reducing bacterial AMR-associated deaths by 10% by the year 2030. This global target requires coordinated action from multiple sectors.

Efforts are underway to curb the rise of AMR. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates that antibiotic use in livestock could increase by nearly 30% by 2040 without intervention, with improved farm management practices offering a potential reduction of up to 57%. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is also focusing on environmental pollution, particularly antimicrobial residues in wastewater. Additionally, gaps in diagnostics, surveillance, and access to quality antimicrobials remain a concern for the World Health Organization (WHO), while the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) emphasizes vaccination and biosecurity.

Progress in the fight against AMR is being recognized and encouraged. The forum celebrated the contributions of 56 journalists and media professionals who received Global AMR Media Awards for their reporting on this crucial global health issue.