2020 Vision – The Year of the Nurse and Midwife

Abstract

The World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife. With a predicted shortfall of more than nine million nurses and midwives by 2030, the World Health Organization has recognized the urgency of tackling the approaching workforce issues head on. The activities planned should provide a once in a generation opportunity to promote the nursing profession and address crucial issues, such as recruitment and retention, professional development and pay and conditions. The International Council of Nurses is working closely with its National Nursing Associations around the world and other key nursing and health organizations, to create a long-lasting legacy that will raise the profile of the profession with the public, boost its professional status, and make it sustainable in the future.