Developing countries more vulnerable to antimicrobial resistance: WHO
As the world observes World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) from November 18-24, the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised an urgent alarm about the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in developing countries. AMR, which undermines the effectiveness of antibiotics and other life-saving medicines, poses a growing challenge to global health, making it harder to treat infectious diseases.
On Monday, Saima Wazed, WHO’s Regional Director for South-East Asia, highlighted the vulnerability of developing nations to AMR, stressing the need for immediate and coordinated action to curb its spread. Wazed pointed to several risk factors that increase the threat in these countries, including high population density, limited access to healthcare, and the misuse of antimicrobials.
“The urgency of addressing AMR is clear. High population density, restricted healthcare access, and the misuse of antimicrobials amplify the risks and impacts of AMR,” Wazed said, emphasizing that these factors put millions of lives at risk in the most vulnerable regions.
The theme of this year’s WAAW, “Educate. Advocate. Act now,” reflects the growing recognition of AMR as a global health crisis that requires a unified response. WHO estimates that in 2019, AMR directly caused 1.27 million deaths worldwide and contributed to an additional 4.95 million deaths, underlining the grave impact of this threat.
This year’s WAAW comes on the heels of a significant milestone in the global fight against AMR—the approval of the 2024 Political Declaration on AMR at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Meeting. The declaration, which includes ambitious targets for tackling AMR, also outlines key steps for sustainable financing of AMR action. One of its goals is for at least 60% of countries to implement fully funded national action plans by 2030.
“The declaration at UNGA and the outcomes of the 4th Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR in Jeddah have set clear and ambitious targets,” said Wazed. “But the real work lies in translating these commitments into concrete action on the ground.”
To combat AMR effectively, Wazed called for increased education on the issue, stronger political will, and greater financial investment. She stressed that tackling AMR requires collaboration across all sectors—from healthcare professionals to policymakers and the general public.
“The choices we make today will impact the health of future generations,” she added. “Your commitment and leadership are key to transforming declarations and commitments into outcomes and tangible impact.”
As the world continues to face an escalating threat from antimicrobial resistance, the call for decisive action has never been clearer. During WAAW, stakeholders around the globe are urged to prioritize AMR, advocate for stronger policies, and ensure that effective measures are taken to protect public health for years to come.
