 This paper presents a comprehensive research agenda for strengthening community health systems, CHS. It begins with a discussion of the importance of CHSs and their role in achieving universal health coverage. The authors then outline eight priority areas for research and practice, including clarification of the purpose and values of CHSs, ensuring inclusivity, design, implementation and monitoring of strategies to strengthen CHSs, social, political and historical contexts of CHSs, community health workers, the interface between the CHS and the broader health system, governance and stewardship, and ethics. Finally, the authors propose a manifesto outlining the shared vision and commitment of all stakeholders involved in strengthening CHSs. This article was authored by Moses Techewee, Anna Karen Herdig, Frida Johnson and others.