Launch of the EU initiative European Partnership on One Health Antimicrobial Resistance (EUP OHAMR)

The European Partnership on One Health Antimicrobial Resistance (EUP OHAMR) has officially launched. The initiative aims to bring together 53 organisations from 30 countries to combat the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance through research, networking, policy implementation and public awareness.

Antibiotic resistance is a silent but growing threat

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people worldwide die from infections that cannot be treated with drugs. This is due to various factors, including the incorrect use of antibiotics, inadequate diagnostics, gaps in knowledge regarding animal husbandry and hygiene, and a fragmented research landscape.

However, antimicrobial resistance knows no boundaries

Without bringing together data, findings and measures, the overall picture remains fragmented and solutions remain piecemeal. This is precisely the area in which EUP OHAMR steps in: pooling research, sharing knowledge and taking joint action.

What makes EUP OHAMR special?

The initiative takes an integrative One Health approach, viewing the health of humans, animals, plants and the environment as an interconnected system rather than in isolation. Only by analysing all levels together can we understand how resistance develops and spreads. Only then can we take action to combat it.

The following will be funded in future:

• research into the biological mechanisms of resistance
• the development of new therapies and rapid diagnostics.
• improvement of surveillance systems
• Measures to prevent and contain resistant pathogens.
• Transfer of knowledge and technology to society, practice and politics.

The first EUP OHAMR joint transnational call will focus on providing innovative and cost-effective treatment options. It will be launched in November 2025. 

Background

The EUP OHAMR initiative builds on the Joint Programming Initiative on Antimicrobial Resistance (JPIAMR), which has invested over €180 million in AMR research since 2011. The new partnership is thinking bigger: as well as funding research, it aims to coordinate it in an interdisciplinary, transnational and application-oriented manner.

Key facts about the partnership

• 53 partner organisations from 30 countries, including many EU Member States and international actors
• The partnership will last 10 years (2025–2035).
• A total budget of 250 million euros for research and innovation
• Up to €75 million in co-financing from the EU under Horizon Europe.
• Coordination: Swedish Research Council
• Vision: Reducing the long-term burden of antibiotic resistance in Europe.
• Mission: Developing new solutions through research and innovation to improve surveillance, target therapies, prevent infections more effectively and encourage the more conscious use of antibiotics.