Launch of the Youth Manifesto on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

14th May: Launch of the Youth Manifesto on AMR

On May 14th, the Young WFPHA as representative of the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat and its Working Group on Youth Engagement on AMR hosted a hybrid event at the WHO office at the UN in New York to launch the Youth Manifesto on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This manifesto, developed through a global consultation with youth leaders, focuses on advocacy, education, patient care, and a One Health approach to AMR.

Key Calls to Action:

• Youth Engagement: Involve youth in AMR policy and program implementation.
• Collaboration: Establish initiatives and mentorship programs for youth-led AMR actions.
• Stakeholder Inclusion: Encourage countries and civil society organizations to include youth in AMR strategic planning.
• Educational Materials: Empower youth networks to create educational content on AMR.

Panel Discussion Highlights:

• Expanding AMR awareness to youth of all ages.
• Leveraging the power of youth communication for advocacy.

Notable Speakers:

• Javier Yugueros-Marcos, World Organization for Animal Health
• HE François Jackman, Permanent Representative of Barbados to the UN
• Werner H Obermeyer, Director, WHO Office at UN 
• Maria Angelica Murillo Correa, UN Environment Programme

Closing Remarks: Augusto Barón emphasized intergenerational unity and the importance of the Youth Manifesto in enhancing collaboration and action against AMR.

15th May: Multi-Stakeholder Meeting on AMR

The next day, the Quadripartite Joint Secretariat and the Office of the President of the General Assembly held a multi-stakeholder meeting, co-facilitated by Malta and Barbados.

Inaugural Address: Vanessa Carter, an AMR survivor, shared her story, highlighting the need for stronger AMR resources and actions.

Panel Highlights:

• Panel 1: Incorporating AMR into the Pandemic Accord, using contextualized data, recognizing economic impacts, and learning from TB eradication programs.
• Panel 2: Reducing volume-oriented antimicrobial sales, improving surveillance, manufacturing practices, and disposal systems, and establishing an AMR Fund.
• Panel 3: Containing AMR, promoting vaccinations, investing in WASH programs, setting AMR targets, and integrating AMR with UHC goals.

Closing Remarks: Representatives from Malta, Barbados, and Augusto Barón called for greater youth involvement in AMR policy and advocacy to secure a shared future.

These events underscored the vital role of youth and multi-stakeholder collaboration in combating AMR, paving the way for the UNGA High-Level Meeting on AMR in 2024.