TDR Strategy 2024-2029: Addressing global health challenges
Our focus remains firmly on addressing infectious diseases of poverty, and our new strategy is grounded in country-led priorities. However, we recognize that this cannot be done effectively without taking into consideration the changing global context - political, economic, social and environmental (including climate change and loss of biodiversity) – in which we work. We will be proactive in identifying opportunities where our activities can contribute to building country resilience to four major global health challenges: epidemics and outbreaks; control and elimination of diseases of poverty; climate change’s impact on health; and resistance to treatment and control agents.
Climate change’s impact on health
Climate change and loss of biodiversity affect the epidemiology of infectious diseases - altering drivers of disease, risks to populations and the effectiveness of control programmes. TDR will support research through a One Health approach to better understand these changes and inform adaptation strategies.
Control and elimination of diseases of poverty
Tuberculosis, malaria and neglected tropical diseases disproportionally affect the poorest and most vulnerable. TDR will support research that leads to integrated, holistic approaches to elimination – reducing the burden of disease and building resilient health systems.
We support work that crosses the disciplines of human, animal and environmental health and promote the importance of applying an intersectional gender lens to infectious disease research.
Epidemics and outbreaks
We support the generation of evidence that strengthens epidemic preparedness and the resilience of health systems to minimize the impact on existing programmes such as established vaccination measures. We will also support research that informs equitable and inclusive health system responses to epidemics and outbreaks, which reach the most vulnerable populations and leave no one behind. This will strengthen health security for all.
Resistance to treatment and control agents
Antimicrobial resistance, resistance to antiparasitic diseases and insecticide resistance now all pose significant global threats. TDR will support multisectoral research to inform national action plans and strategies to prevent and combat resistance. We will contribute to research that strengthens resilience through improved surveillance, better risk assessment, enhanced awareness and better understanding of underpinning human behaviour related to the spread of resistance.
