Effective policymaking relies on robust evidence, yet antimicrobial resistance (AMR) data are often fragmented across sectors, making it challenging for policymakers to evaluate, prioritize and act on proven solutions. Additionally, significant evidence gaps limit progress and weaken the case for essential and sustainable funding and interventions. Independent panels serve as objective, authoritative science-policy bodies and play an important role in building global consensus and fostering action on complex issues.  

Recognizing this need, the report of the Inter-Agency Coordination Group on AMR (IACG) to the UN Secretary-General (UNSG) in 2019 recommended the establishment of an Independent Panel on Evidence for Action against AMR (IPEA) as part of AMR global governance structures, as well as a Global Leaders Group on AMR and the AMR Multistakeholder Partnership Platform, both of which have already been established.  

At the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in September 2024, countries adopted the Political Declaration of the High-level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance. The Declaration requests the Quadripartite organizations to establish an IPEA to facilitate the generation and use of multisectoral, scientific evidence to support Member States in efforts to tackle AMR. The Political Declaration further notes the need for open and transparent consultation with all UN Member States and other relevant stakeholders on its composition, mandate, scope, and deliverables, making use of existing resources and avoiding duplication of ongoing efforts.  

The IPEA will be launched in 2026 with the primary purpose of building global consensus and equipping UN Member States with reliable evidence to guide informed policy and funding decisions and to promote high-impact interventions against AMR across diverse contexts. It must strike a balance between political legitimacy and scientific independence, whilst addressing broad One Health perspectives.