A list of antibiotic-resistant bacteria assessed to be of highest priority for new antibiotic development.
The global bacterial priority pathogens list (BPPL) was first published in 2017 by the World Health Organization to guide research, development, and investment in antibacterial medicines, diagnostics, and other prevention and control tools.
The list was created using a multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) approach, informed by robust evidence and extensive input from a broad group of experts convened by WHO. Criteria such as disease burden, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends, transmission rates, treatment options, and pipeline gaps were considered. Since its inception, the BPPL has played a pivotal role in shaping global R&D strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
The BPPL was updated in 2024 to broaden its scope to guide not only research and development but also public health actions. It now covers 24 pathogens across 15 families of drug-resistant bacteria categorized into critical, high, or medium priority levels. This update reflects a comprehensive strategy to address the escalating challenges of AMR.