On International Women’s Day ICN calls for rights, justice and action for women and girls

This year’s United Nations theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls,” highlights the urgent need to protect women’s rights and address the persistent inequalities that continue to affect women’s health, safety and opportunities.

Women make up around 85% of the global nursing workforce, and nurses witness every day how gender inequality affects the health of women, families and communities. Despite progress in recent decades, women continue to experience disparities in access to education, economic opportunities, leadership roles and health services. WHO data shows that female health professionals are significantly less likely to hold leadership positions in healthcare, which directly impacts the nursing profession.

ICN President José Luis Cabos Serrano said:

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women around the world, including the millions of nurses who provide essential care and leadership and have the power to save and improve lives everywhere. At the same time, it reminds us that much more must be done to ensure women and girls everywhere enjoy full rights, opportunities and health.”

‘Evidence shows that women spend a greater proportion of their lives in poor health compared to men. Nurses see first hand the devastating impact of gender-based violence, discrimination and unequal access to education and employment, which affect the health of millions of women and girls worldwide across the life course.” 

“As a predominantly female profession, nursing stands at the intersection of health and gender equality. Achieving gender equality is absolutely essential not only for basic justice but for healthier societies and stronger health systems.”

Gender equality is central to ICN’s mission and work. As well as advocating for women’s rights at policy and system levels, ICN supports initiatives that directly create opportunities for girls and young women, including the ICN Girl Child Education Fund (GCEF) which provides education for orphaned daughters of nurses. The programme currently supports girls in Eswatini, Kenya, Uganda and Zambia.

This year’s wider International Women’s Day campaign also highlights the theme “Give To Gain,” a global call encouraging individuals, organizations and communities to support women’s advancement through collaboration, reciprocity and investment. ICN’s work exemplifies this approach. When we invest in women, the benefits are multiplied across families, communities and health systems.

ICN Dr Ribeiro continued :

“Investing in nursing is one of the most effective ways to advance women’s leadership and empowerment, all while strengthening health systems and progressing toward universal health coverage. Nurses are trusted professionals and powerful role models who help inspire the next generation of women and girls to pursue education, leadership and careers in health.”

ICN’s Girl Child Education Fund (GCEF)

Since the ICN Girl Child Education Fund (GCEF) was initiated, 420 girls have been enrolled in the programme and more than 300 have graduated from secondary school. Currently, around 80 girls are being supported through the initiative.

The cost of enabling each girl to complete her schooling—including school fees, uniforms, shoes and books—is approximately US$1,500 per year.

To donate to GCEF please click here