Denmark and Bangladesh have further strengthened cooperation to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Bangladesh by working towards a prudent use of antibiotics in livestock production. This was done by signing a government to government cooperation on the 2nd of February 2025.
AMR is a major health threat globally. In Bangladesh, in 2019, there were more than 26,200 deaths caused by AMR and it is becoming increasingly challenging to address this issue.
On the occasion of the signing, the Danish Ambassador to Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Christian Brix Møller said ´ Antimirobial resistance is one of the top global public health threats, and a major challenge in Bangladesh. Denmark is honoured to be in this partnership with Bangladesh to combat this health threat by working towards a more prudent use of antibiotics in food production ´
This project is aimed to reduce antibiotic misuse in livestock by raising awareness and implementing a residue control plan, ensuring safer food and healthier communities.
Major General Md. Shameem Haidar, Director General, Directorate General Drug Administration said,The government-to-government cooperation between Denmark and Bangladesh is a significant step in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. The project´s One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, aligns with Bangladesh’s initiatives through the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), which serves as the One Health Secretariat of Bangladesh. This institution leads multi-sectoral efforts in zoonotic disease control, antimicrobial resistance containment, and pandemic preparedness, fostering collaboration among public health, veterinary, and environmental sectors. ´ The signing has solidified the commitment of both nations to continue close cooperation in the food and agricultural sector.
This is a government-to-government project between Denmark and Bangladesh. The Danish partner to this project is the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, and the Bangladeshi partners are Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution, Directorate General Drug Administration, and Department of Livestock Services.