# Bridging the Evidence-to-Policy Gap: Strengthening Capacities in Low- and Middle-Income Countries to Translate Antimicrobial Resistance Data and Evidence into Effective Policies

## TL;DR

This paper shows how training and collaboration can help low- and middle-income countries use antimicrobial resistance data to create better policies.

## Contribution

The study introduces a structured Evidence-to-Policy model that improves AMR evidence use in LMICs through training and policy dialogues.

## Key findings

- Participant surveys showed improved confidence in using AMR evidence for policymaking.
- Countries reported enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration and clearer processes for creating evidence briefs.
- The RADAAR project demonstrated the value of institutionalized knowledge translation mechanisms.

## Abstract

Background: The translation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) data and evidence into policy remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Asia and Africa, despite expanded investments being made in AMR surveillance and research. This is due to fragmented governance, weak knowledge translation capacity, and insufficient multisectoral coordination. Results: Following the implementation of an Evidence-to-Policy (E2P) capacity-strengthening intervention in four LMICs in Africa and Asia, participant surveys showed improved confidence and capability to synthesize, interpret, and apply AMR evidence to inform policy. The four countries highlighted persistent constraints such as sectoral silos, limited institutional ownership, and gaps in evidence-use systems, but reported enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration and a clearer, replicable process for the development of Evidence Briefs for Policy (EBPs). Methodology: During Phase II of the Fleming Fund-resourced Regional AMR Data Analysis for Advocacy, Response, and Policy (RADAAR) project, a structured, hybrid, evidence-to-policy (E2P) capacity-strengthening model was implemented in Bhutan, Ghana, Kenya, and Lao People’s Democratic Republic, combining online and in-person training, targeted mentorship, and policymaker engagement. Each country developed a country-specific evidence brief for policy (EBP) and conducted policy dialogues to facilitate stronger decision maker involvement. Conclusions: RADAAR’s approach strengthened the foundational capacity for evidence-informed policymaking and demonstrated the value of institutionalized knowledge translation mechanisms. Sustained investment in E2P systems is essential to bridge the AMR E2P gap and ultimately support AMR prevention and control.