Antimicrobial resistance threatens great achievements in modern medicine and public health. Alarming levels of resistance to common hospital and community-acquired pathogens have been reported across the world. Microorganisms, especially bacteria, are becoming increasingly resistant to second- and third-line antibiotics. Some bacteria are already fully resistant to existing antibiotics. The agenda focuses on regional specific actions to strengthen national plans, raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance across all sectors, improving surveillance and strengthening the capacity of health systems to contain resistance.