We need to act now

The Growing Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing threat to global health, killing an increasing number of people worldwide while the development of new antimicrobials lags behind. As AMR continues to erode the effectiveness of modern medicine’s most essential treatment tools, immediate global action is crucial. The process of developing, testing, and bringing new antibiotics to market is long and complex, and the window of opportunity to combat this crisis is rapidly closing. We cannot afford to delay any longer.

A Silent Pandemic

AMR is now recognized as a global health emergency, often referred to as a “silent pandemic” or “looming pandemic.” It is one of the top ten threats to global health. In 2019 alone, 1.27 million people died due to bacterial AMR infections, and projections suggest that if we fail to act, AMR could claim 10 million lives annually by 2050. The urgency is clear: the time to act is now. Pathogens will not wait for global awareness to catch up or for organizations to convene and formulate mitigation strategies.

The Economic Toll of AMR

Health is a critical driver of economic growth and development. By 2050, AMR could push 28.3 million people into extreme poverty due to the high costs of prolonged treatments and chronic infections. The estimated global economic loss could reach $100 trillion by 2050 if AMR is not addressed. We must act now to prevent this devastating impact on global economies and livelihoods.

Protecting Future Generations

Addressing AMR is also about safeguarding future generations. Those affected by AMR endure prolonged illnesses, longer treatment durations, mental health challenges, social stigma, and substantial financial burdens—all of which are preventable with collective action today. We have a responsibility to act now to avert a future where treatable infections become life-threatening and where the gains made in global health over the past century are undone. The time for coordinated, decisive action is now to protect the health, well-being, and prosperity of current and future generations.