The World Health Organization has released its State of the World Nursing 2020 report, which highlights the pivotal role of nurses in global health and the urgent need for investment in the health workforce.
The report’s message is clear: governments need to accelerate their investment in nurse education, the creation of nursing jobs, and leadership.
WHO said the COVID-19 pandemic “clearly demonstrates” the importance of nurses in global health.
“Today, many nurses find themselves on the frontline in the battle against Covid-19,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
‘This report is a stark reminder of the unique role they play, and a wakeup call to ensure they get the support they need to keep the world healthy.’
WHO found there is a global shortfall of 5.9 million nurses with the greatest gaps found in countries in Africa, South East Asia and the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region as well as some parts of Latin America.
International Council of Nurses President, Annette Kennedy said the report showed that “every penny invested in nursing raises the wellbeing of people and families in tangible ways that are clear for everyone to see”.
Download the report: https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/07-04-2020-who-and-partners-call-for-urgent-investment-in-nurses