There is a gap between scientific knowledge and its application in policy and practice at the global level. In addition, much of the existing research originates in high-income countries and often cannot be transferred to other settings. To address these challenges, the 2021 World Health Assembly Resolution 74.4 calls on Member States to “strengthen the monitoring and evaluation of diabetes responses, through country-level surveillance and monitoring systems, including surveys, that are integrated into existing national health information systems and by identifying priority areas for diabetes research.” To achieve this goal, in 2023, WHO developed a priority diabetes research agenda in collaboration with the Universities of Geneva and Sydney and with financial support from the Geneva Science-Policy Interface. WHO wishes to formally launch this new diabetes research agenda by encouraging regional participation and has selected the Region of the Americas for this launch.