The International Council of Nurses (ICN) launched an exciting new campaign – “Our Nurses. Our Future.” – on International Nurses Day, May 12, 2023. A key resource is a ten-point Charter for Change that provides guidance for the future.
The first point sets the tone for global health action:
“Protect and invest in the nursing profession to rebuild health systems that can deliver the Sustainable Development Goals and Universal Health Coverage to improve global health. Recognise and value health and health care as an investment not a cost. Secure commitments for investment to maintain equitable and people-centred care.“
Each point is worth attention and action this year. I will reflect on point 8 as we prepare for the ICN Congress in Montreal this July:
“Actively and meaningfully engage national nursing associations as critical professional partners in all aspects of health and social care policy, delivery and leadership as the experienced and trusted voice of nursing. Build local, national and global multilateral partnerships.”
On this day, I am reminded of warm connections with international colleagues I have met through partnerships, exchange visits and conferences over many decades. In particular I’m thinking about the nurses, faculty members and students at Guru Nanak College of Nursing in Punjab and my friends at the Canada India Education Society and UBC School of Nursing. The hospitality and conversations were wonderful! Also remembering nurse leaders I met and admired in the Japanese Nursing Association and the Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa (DENOSA). Thank you and best wishes for International Nurses Day and beyond!
By Nora Whyte – May 12, 2023
