On May 12, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) released the 2025 State of the World’s Nursing report, underscoring the pivotal role of nurses in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As the largest healthcare workforce, nurses are vital for tackling health inequities and strengthening global health systems.
Global Nursing Workforce
Growth and Disparities
The global nursing workforce grew from 27.9 million in 2018 to 29.8 million in 2023. However, regional disparities persist, with 78% of nurses concentrated in countries that account for only 49% of the global population. This uneven distribution highlights the need for targeted investments to ensure equitable access to nursing care worldwide.
Challenges in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Employment and Retention Issues
Low- and middle-income countries face significant hurdles in employing and retaining nurses. While these nations are producing nurse graduates at a faster rate than high-income countries, population growth outpaces job creation, leading to underemployment. Enhanced domestic investments are essential to create nursing jobs and improve working conditions.
Foreign-Born Nurses
Reliance on Migration
Globally, one in seven nurses is foreign-born, with 23% in high-income countries. Upper middle-income countries have 8% foreign-born nurses, while lower middle-income and low-income countries have 1% and 3%, respectively. This reliance on international migration raises concerns about the sustainability of nursing workforces in certain regions.
Gender Dynamics in Nursing
Promoting Equity
Women make up 85% of the global nursing workforce, yet gender equity remains a critical issue. The report calls for policies that promote equality and empower female nurses, addressing systemic barriers to create a more inclusive profession.
Mental Health Support for Nurses
Addressing Well-Being
Only 42% of countries provide mental health support for nurses, despite increased workloads and trauma from the COVID-19 pandemic. Strengthening mental health provisions is crucial for retaining skilled professionals and ensuring quality patient care.
Policy Recommendations
Strengthening Nursing Systems
The report outlines 12 policy priorities and five additional recommendations to bolster nursing. It urges policymakers, nursing associations, and stakeholders to invest in nursing education, practice, and remuneration to achieve universal health coverage and other health-related SDGs.
Improved Data Collection
Enhanced Global Insights
Based on data from 194 countries, the report reflects a 33% increase in reporting since 2020. This improvement in data collection provides a clearer understanding of global nursing challenges and opportunities, aiding evidence-based policymaking.
Key Facts About the 2025 State of the World’s Nursing Report
- Release Date: May 12, 2025
- Global Nursing Workforce: 29.8 million in 2023, up from 27.9 million in 2018
- Regional Disparity: 78% of nurses in countries with 49% of global population
- Foreign-Born Nurses: One in seven globally, 23% in high-income countries
- Gender Composition: 85% of nurses are women
- Mental Health Support: Available in only 42% of countries
- Policy Priorities: 12 recommendations to strengthen nursing for SDGs