On May 21st, the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS) participated in a high-level event, From Evidence to Action: Designing an Effective Independent Panel on Antimicrobial Resistance, held on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly. This event took place in light of the UNGA high level declaration on AMR inviting: “the Quadripartite organizations to establish an independent panel for evidence for action against antimicrobial resistance in 2025 to facilitate the generation and use of multisectoral, scientific evidence to support Member States in efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance, making use of existing resources and avoiding duplication of on-going efforts, after an open and transparent consultation with all Member States on its composition, mandate, scope, and deliverables.”
The event brought together global experts to discuss the elements toward establishing a robust Independent Panel for Evidence for Action on AMR, one that is evidence-based, globally representative, and equipped to drive policy change.
Representing ICARS, Executive Director Dr. Sujith J Chandy joined a panel alongside Prof. Kevin Outterson, Executive Director of CARB-X, and Misbah Khan, Health and Environment Reporter at The Bureau of Investigative Journalism. The discussion was moderated by Anthony McDonnell, Policy Fellow at the Center for Global Development (CGD).
During the panel discussion, Sujith outlined various critical elements essential towards establishing the panel, emphasising the importance of ensuring that the proposed panel is not only scientifically rigorous but also deeply grounded in the realities of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs):
“The evidence generation towards policies and recommendations should be shaped by capturing the unique challenges and contexts in LMICs. The panel should prioritise evidence generation based on the challenges on the ground and ensure equitable participation.”
A highlight of the event was the launch of CGD’s new interactive tool, designed to estimate the economic impact of AMR across 122 countries. The accompanying research underscores the vast economic benefits that could be realised by improving access to innovative antibiotics and optimising AMR treatment, findings that further reinforce the urgent need for coordinated, evidence-based action.
Drawing on reflections from a recent “lessons learned” dialogue in Lagos, hosted by the Nigerian Academy of Science and the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, and co-chaired by representatives from the Center for Global Development, the University in Ibadan and Boston University, the discussion during this event explored how other global panels have navigated issues such as independence, governance, and sustainable funding. These insights are critical as stakeholders work to design a panel that can credibly and effectively guide global AMR strategies.
ICARS remains committed to supporting efforts that bridge research and policy, particularly through context-specific, implementation-focused interventions that support action on the ground. As Sujith stressed:
“An independent panel for evidence on AMR must serve as a bridge between science and decision-making, addressing the gaps in evidence, promoting action by providing clear evidence-based strategies, and ensuring that holistic knowledge is generated that spurs action within sectors and diverse settings .”
As AMR continues to pose an escalating threat to health systems and economies worldwide, ICARS stands ready to contribute our experience in evidence-based contextual, cost-effective and sustainable solutions. We welcome the establishment of an Independent Panel and support the momentum for a truly global, interdisciplinary response based on evidence generation from such a panel anchored in equity and scientific integrity.
Photo credit: Center for Global Development
