The overall aim of ROADMAP is to foster transitions towards prudent antimicrobial use (AMU) in animal production in a large variety of contexts. This change will be achieved through an improvement of antimicrobial decision-systems all along the food and drug supply chains. The originality of ROADMAP lies on the fact that for the first time a project will apply “food systems” and “transition pathways” conceptual approaches to AMU topic. So far, research has focused on technical solutions and behavioural change, but not on a broader understanding of the systemic dynamics and therefore required changes. ROADMAP’s new theoretical and methodological framework allows it and brings new knowledge and solutions to the crucial issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Through an interdisciplinary and multi-actor perspective, ROADMAP tackles the most important challenge of the fight against AMR, i.e. finding solutions that are adapted to local contexts. It will draw lessons from countries and production systems that have already decreased AMU and rely on successful experiences to build transition scenarios that can mobilize all actors involved in animal health management (from the farmers and the veterinarians to upstream and downstream industries and public authorities). Moreover, by carrying out fieldwork from different regions of Europe and LMI countries, ROADMAP contributes to harmonize trends and dynamics towards prudent use of AMs in farmed animals.
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Finally, ROADMAP has an impact on a large range of stakeholders involved in rethinking of animal production management. By combining economics, social, animal and veterinary sciences, ROADMAP will not only provide efficient technical solutions for fostering prudent AMU, but also come up with socioeconomic tools and incentives that will ensure their acceptability and thus implementation. Transitions pathways engaging all the food and drug supply chains will indeed make it possible to favor a global reduction of AMU, driven by a mix of strategies adapted to different production systems.​

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