WAAW 2020 theme: United to preserve antimicrobials!

WAAW has expanded its scope to address not just antibiotics, but all antimicrobials, including antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic medicines. This exciting decision came on the strong recommendation of the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) community. In the midst of a global pandemic, stakeholders came together virtually to discuss the challenges and opportunities for the WAAW campaign and awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) more generally. The overarching message was that all sectors needed to unite to change behaviours and that the campaign needed to broaden its scope from antibiotics, to include all antimicrobials. 

For the first time ever, we are also celebrating WAAW at a time when traditional methods of campaigning are not possible. We are challenged by new rules of social distancing, limitations on public gatherings, and physical isolation. As with the global virtual consultation in May 2020, however, the AMR community has shown its commitment, resilience and eagerness to celebrate, unite, and build awareness around an issue that is becoming one of the most significant challenges to our global health and development objectives. Over the 7 days of WAAW 2020, events will be held virtually in all regions of the world, by governments, academics, students, health care workers, NGOs and all those interested and passionate about combating AMR.

For WAAW 2020, each day has a suggested focus on an area relevant to AMR.  However, you have the freedom to celebrate WAAW by focusing on what is most important to you and your work throughout the week. Events across the world during the week will bring together multidisciplinary stakeholders to talk about the far-reaching effects of AMR to our health, communities, economies, and our futures.

What’s taking place during WAAW 2020?

Events are taking place all over the globe. We encourage you to join some of these global events included in our Calendar of events.

We would also love to hear what you are doing for WAAW 2020. You can let us know by completing this participation form.

You can download materials from the 2020 Campaign page and from CANTO including: 
Videos
Social media tiles
... and more!

Organisation: World Health Organization