There is a pressing need for research into historically overlooked areas such as neglected diseases (Ebola is just one example), antibiotic development and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in resource-poor settings. Developing and developed countries alike face the threats of antimicrobial resistance and the rise of NCDs. At the same time our current research and development (R&D) system causes problems for access to new essential medicines it does develop, because of high pricing, disproportionately affecting people in low and middle- income countries. Clearly, the need for adequate and affordable health-related innovations is now greater than ever.

This panel, hosted by UAEM (Universities Allied for Essential Medicines, a student-led initiative) will elaborate on the failures of the current R&D system, will propose new models how to fill the gap (incl. Open Access approaches) and show how researchers can respond to move towards an equitable, accessible and needs-driven innovation system.

The panel will be moderated by Alain Amstutz, UAEM Switzerland