GNLI is an 18-month long programme that builds on the International Council of Nurses’ (ICN) legacy of working with senior nurses from around the world to increase their policy leadership understanding and expertise. 

During the programme, scholars will enjoy opportunities to network with ICN, WHO and other global and regional health institutions and leaders, while developing policy-based projects based on the WHO priorities for their regions.

Programme Outcomes 

Scholars who complete the programme have a: 

• Better understanding of how to influence policy 
• Improved ability to work with stakeholders within and beyond the nursing profession 
• Greater awareness of the competencies needed to negotiate with policy stakeholders 
• Enhanced ability to review and frame the evidence base within local, national and international political, health and social care contexts 
• Competence in creating clear policy messages that appeal to politicians, policymakers and the public 

In addition, scholars also: 

• Receive a certificate of completion 
• Are awarded 52 International Continuing Nursing Education Credits (ICNEC) 
• Join the GNLI Alumni, a network of regional and global nurse leaders in policy

How to apply? 

For an application to be considered complete, it must contain all necessary information and supporting documents. 

This includes: 

• an updated CV/ résumé 
• a short introductory video 
• a letter of support from your employer 
• a recommendation letter

Selection process 

Applicants who are shortlisted will be invited for a short virtual interview with the GNLI Directors. Accepted scholars are notified in March. 

Nurses from around the world will be selected as GNLI 2026 scholars through a competitive process. Successful applicants will be expected to find their own source of funding to attend, while full or partial bursaries may be available for those from low- and lower-middle-income countries.

Programme Dates

Programme Overview 

GNLI focuses on your personal and professional development as a necessary foundation to becoming a more effective leader in policy. 

Module 1

This online module follows a cohort-based structure, starting with an all-scholar kick off session on 9 June 2026. You will be required to complete 12 assignments. These assignments include preparatory reading, reviewing health and nursing data in your country, and identifying a project relevant to your work that you will continue to develop throughout the programme. 

By the end of Module 1, you will select a focus for a Regional Project that aligns with ICN’s Policy priorities and the WHO regional office’s priorities.    

Module 2

This residential module provides the immersive learning experiences that is the core of GNLI. Scholars are expected to be fully present for the week in Geneva, Switzerland. Meals are shared with other scholars, faculty and guests. The days begin at 08:00 AM and end after dinner around 09:00 PM. 

This module includes discussions on:

• Policy process and its political context 

• Strategies for evidence-based policy change that promote population health 

• Role of nurses in leading health and social policy 

• Effective communication skills including framing, messaging and use of media 

• In-depth explorations of the social determinants of health (SDOH), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), health disparities and gender equity, with reflections on their relevance to the work of ICN

The week includes meetings at the WHO headquarters and lunch at the ICN offices.

Module 3

The module includes assignments on continuing work with in-country mentors, presentations of Regional Project plans and implementation. 

Completion requirements

Note that scholars are required to participate in 80% of the scheduled online sessions in Modules 1 and 3, be fully present during the Module 2 on-site week in Geneva, and be an active contributor to the regional projects to complete the programme.