Ecological strategies to end the war on resistance

The article argues that the traditional “war on microbes” approach to antimicrobial resistance is outdated and counterproductive, as continuous use of antibiotics inevitably drives resistance and disrupts microbial ecosystems. Instead of treating bacteria solely as enemies to be eliminated, the author calls for ecological, sustainable strategies that preserve or restore microbial balance, reduce selective pressure, and emphasise prevention through hygiene, vaccination, and responsible antibiotic use. This ecological perspective aligns with One Health principles and promotes long-term, systems-based solutions that minimise ecological damage while improving resilience against infectious diseases.