The World Health Organization (WHO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) will jointly hold a symposium focused on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), innovation, and access. The event is scheduled for December 11, 2025, at the Centre de Conférence de Varembé in Geneva, with both in-person and virtual participation options available.
The main objective of the symposium is to use the combined expertise of these three organizations to develop practical solutions aimed at preserving the effectiveness of antimicrobials for future generations. The agenda includes examining the current state of AMR, its health and socio-economic effects, and identifying opportunities for coordinated action at various levels. The symposium also seeks to improve understanding of challenges related to innovation and access in addressing AMR.
Another focus will be on how legal and policy tools—including intellectual property frameworks and incentive mechanisms—can support innovation, technology transfer, and equitable global access. Additionally, discussions will address trade rules, market dynamics, manufacturing capacity, supply chains, and equitable distribution.
Opening remarks will be delivered by the Directors-General of WHO, WIPO, and WTO. Professor Ramanan Laxminarayan from the University of Washington and One Health Trust will give the keynote address. The program includes three technical sessions covering public health, intellectual property, and trade aspects.
Antimicrobial resistance remains a significant threat to global health. According to estimates from 2021, bacterial AMR was responsible for approximately 1.14 million deaths worldwide. Data from more than 100 countries indicate that resistance is widespread and increasing, especially in lower-income nations where resources to prevent or treat infections are limited. Economic projections suggest that if left unaddressed, AMR could reduce global GDP by up to 3.8% by 2050.
The organizers emphasize that addressing AMR requires a multidisciplinary approach involving innovation supported by balanced intellectual property systems, timely global access to health technologies, open trade policies that also consider national health security concerns, and robust supply chains.
Registration for the symposium is open until December 9, 2025.