A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that the global nursing workforce has grown to 29.8 million in 2023, up from 27.9 million in 2018.
However, the report shared on Monday warns that serious gaps remain between countries and regions, putting global health goals at risk.
While the global shortage of nurses has reduced from 6.2 million in 2020 to 5.8 million in 2023, most nurses (78%) are concentrated in countries that represent just 49% of the world’s population.
Low- and middle-income countries face challenges in training, employing, and keeping nurses, while richer countries rely heavily on foreign-trained staff, with 1 in 4 nurses in high-income countries born abroad.
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The report shows slow but steady improvements, including a 33% increase in countries reporting workforce data since 2020.
It also highlights rising numbers of advanced practice nurses and more national nursing leadership roles, though support for mental health and leadership development is still lacking in many low-income countries.
Women make up 85% of the nursing workforce, but gender equity and working conditions remain major concerns.
Retirement trends are also worrying, especially in high-income countries where more nurses are leaving than entering the workforce.
WHO is calling on governments to expand nursing jobs, improve working conditions, and strengthen local training.
Countries are also urged to invest in leadership, mental health support, and prepare nurses for climate and digital health challenges.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, said the report is a signpost showing where progress is being made and where urgent action is still needed.
