WOAH Members adopt the updated Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance

A major milestone for global health and a strong signal of international commitment to tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) : on 21 May 2026, the 183 Members of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) adopted the updated Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (GAP-AMR) 2026–2036 during WOAH’s 93rd General Session.

The adoption marks a significant achievement for WOAH and the Quadripartite (FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH) partnership on AMR, bringing the global community one step closer to a coordinated, One Health response to one of the most pressing challenges facing human, animal, plant and environmental health. 

Just two days later, Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) also adopted the updated Plan during the World Health Assembly, reinforcing a shared commitment across sectors and regions to accelerate action against AMR. 

As the first of the Quadripartite organisations to formally adopt the updated Global Action Plan through its governing body, WOAH demonstrated its leadership and commitment to advancing a coordinated global response to antimicrobial resistance.

A roadmap for the next decade   

The updated GAP-AMR sets out a common vision and strategic direction for the period 2026–2036. It reflects the commitment made by United Nations Member States in the Political Declaration of the High-level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance, which called for a robust and inclusive multisectoral response through a One Health approach that aligns with current realities to drive greater impact against antimicrobial resistance.  

The Plan has six strategic objectives: 

• Strengthen awareness and promote appropriate social and behavioural change 

• Strengthen surveillance systems and laboratory networks to support evidence-based policies and action 

• Intensify infection prevention and control to reduce the burden of infectious diseases and the need for antimicrobials 

• Ensure equitable access, appropriate use and safe disposal of antimicrobials, diagnostics and other health products 

• Accelerate antimicrobial resistance research and innovation 

• Strengthen multisectoral governance, sustainable financing and accountability for a coordinated AMR response 

By addressing AMR through a One Health approach, the Plan recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant and environmental health and the need for collective action to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials for future generations. 

Adoption by WOAH Members 

The updated Global Action Plan was adopted by WOAH Members through Resolution No. 18, submitted to the 2026 World Assembly of Delegates following the recommendation of the WOAH Working Group on Antimicrobial Resistance. 

The adoption reflects the intensive collaboration among the Quadripartite organisations, Member Delegations, technical experts, partner organisations and stakeholders across sectors who contributed to the development of the updated GAP-AMR through extensive consultations. 

From strategy to implementation 

The adoption of the updated GAP-AMR is not the end of the process – it is the beginning of a new phase focused on implementation. 

While the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) continue their respective approval processes, the Quadripartite partners are already preparing the next steps. 

A key priority will be the development of cross-sectoral operational guidance to support Members of the Quadripartite organisations and regions in translating the strategic objectives of the GAP-AMR into practical action. These guidelines will provide a framework for coordinated implementation across sectors and will help strengthen accountability, monitoring and impact.

Furthermore, the Quadripartite is also developing a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework that will allow to assess the progress in the implementation of the updated GAP-AMR at global level.  

WOAH is also preparing a series of webinars to support Members in advancing AMR action within Veterinary Services and animal health systems.

A collective achievement 

The adoption of the updated Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance represents the power of international cooperation and collective action. It is the result of sustained engagement from governments, experts, international organisations and non-state actors committed to protecting the effectiveness of antimicrobials and safeguarding health worldwide.

As the global community moves from commitment to implementation, WOAH remains fully committed to supporting its Members and partners in delivering meaningful action against antimicrobial resistance.

The next decade will be decisive. The roadmap is now in place; the focus turns to putting the Plan into practice.