Developing an ethical evaluation framework for coercive antimicrobial stewardship policies

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health threat, and coercive antimicrobial stewardship policies are being implemented. Ethical justifications for these policies include effectiveness, duty of easy rescue, tragedy of the commons, responsibility-tracking, harm principle, paternalism, justice and development, precautionary approach, and professional duties. A comprehensive ethical framework should be context-specific and aligned with the priorities, evidence, and needs of the jurisdiction.