The global burden of antimicrobial resistance requires new antibacterial treatments, especially for the most challenging resistant bacteria. WHO aims to set and coordinate the priority research and development (R&D) agenda for new antimicrobials, diagnostics and alternative approaches. WHO also works with various partners to ensure that new products that come to market are used responsibly and accessible by all.

WHO developed a list of priority pathogens for which antibiotics are urgently needed and regularly performs an analysis of the clinical and pre-clinical antibacterial pipelines. It also recently gathered experts to identify Target Product Profiles (TPPs) for the most essential and missing antibacterials. WHO furthermore works with a variety of international partners to set up new mechanisms for driving investment and innovation in R&D. Together with Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi), WHO created the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP). GARDP aims to accelerate development of new treatment options for those who need them most, while ensuring both access and stewardship.