Communicable diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and vaccine-preventable diseases have a considerable negative impact on social development in the Western Pacific Region. Despite significant progress toward the control and elimination of these diseases, the Region is facing emerging threats such as drug-resistant tuberculosis and malaria, the increased risk of infection faced by vulnerable populations, and the effects of climate change.The framework aims to provide a regional framework for collaboration with Member States, research institutions and partners to carry out research aimed at strengthening key communicable disease programs. It identifies critical areas of work and is expected to serve as a road map for strengthening research throughout the Region.