Free riding is not the problem: how agency, heterogeneity and authority challenge collective action against antimicrobial resistance in the European Union

The paper explores the governance of collective action in complex contexts, focusing on the European public health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It examines coordination challenges due to agency, capabilities, preferences, institutions, and authority. The study finds that heterogeneity among EU member states often hinders collective action. Networks of AMR experts are crucial for successful governance, both in human public health and animal health sectors.