Complexity and Political Governance
The central theme of the webinar was antibiotic resistance as a societal issue. The research highlights that the fight against AMR is marked by low political interest despite its serious consequences for public health. This lack of engagement has, however, granted experts and specialists considerable autonomy, enabling them to drive progress in the absence of clear political leadership. Significant regional differences within Europe were also noted: while Northern Europe stands out for its robust expert-led coordination, Southern and Eastern Europe face challenges such as resource shortages and limited political prioritisation.
Leadership and National Strategies
Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands were highlighted as leaders in tackling antibiotic resistance, largely due to them being role models in terms of low antibiotic use and low levels of resistance.
The discussion emphasised that leadership is not solely about resources but also about how culture, structures, and institutional quality influence success. The webinar also explored differences between the perspectives of human and veterinary medicine, with Sweden standing out as a leader in human medicine.
The Future Requires Collaboration and Reflection
To strengthen global efforts against AMR, a deeper understanding of the societal factors influencing both successes and setbacks is essential. The researchers stressed the importance of data collection, clearer guidelines, and greater political commitment. At the same time, AMR strategies must be inclusive and built on dialogue across different sectors and levels, from local healthcare to international organisations.
The Importance of Social Science Insights
A recurring message was that AMR is not solely a medical issue but also a societal challenge that depends on effective organisation. Strama groups were highlighted as examples of how local and national initiatives can be integrated into a broader European framework. Understanding and leveraging the interplay between politics, expertise, and social norms is key to developing long-term sustainable solutions. By combining social science research with medical and technical efforts, we can create a broader and more effective strategy to address this global issue.
