Civil Society Engagement in The Fight Against AMR: From the New National Plan in Italy To the AMR Patient Alliance at The European Level

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the top 10 public health threats worldwide, as it compromises the ability to treat even minor infections and puts surgical procedures and other advanced, life-saving medical interventions at serious risk [1]. The year 2025 will mark 10 years since the adoption of the WHO Global Action Plan against AMR [2], and despite the progress made to date, there is still a need to initiate concrete and effective actions to eradicate this phenomenon, which is still too little widespread in the collective consciousness: it is no coincidence that some experts label it with the name "silent tsunami" [3], while others speak of a "neglected pandemic" [4], and already this is a message that should not be overlooked, and a more than valid reason to engage in the fight against AMR. In this regard, how to raise awareness, and what contribution can be expected from civic organizations and patients' advocacy groups (PAGs) in support of initiatives – both institutional and non-institutional – to counter AMR? This article illustrates an experience of civic activism that has managed to cross national borders from Italy.