PAHO Proposes Gender, Leadership, and Nurse Training for International Nurses Day: Addressing Inequality in Health Employment

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has proposed that Member States in the Americas discuss gender, leadership, and nurse training for International Nurses Day. Despite women comprising the majority of the health workforce globally and in the Americas, they still encounter obstacles in accessing job opportunities and are paid less than their male counterparts.

Nurses play a vital role in healthcare systems, yet they often do not receive the recognition and investment they deserve in terms of education, job opportunities, and leadership roles. PAHO’s Policy on the Health Workforce 2030: Strengthening Human Resources for Health to Achieve Resilient Health Systems (CD60/6) highlights the importance of incorporating a gender perspective into health employment policies to ensure that health workers are treated fairly and receive equal pay.

International Nurses Day activities are intended to encourage discussions and initiatives that promote gender equality, leadership, and innovation in nursing education and practice. PAHO’s recommendations aim to address the challenges faced by female nurses and ensure that they are valued and supported in their vital role within the healthcare sector.