ICN welcomes recognition of the valuable work of nurses and midwives by Médecins Sans Frontières

Photo credit: MSF 

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) welcomes the news that Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders) (MSF) passed a motion at their highest level of governance, which recognises nursing and midwifery’s valuable contribution to their medical humanitarian work.

The motion notes that the best way for MSF to deliver safe, quality, patient-centred care is through a clear commitment to its more than 8,000 nurses and midwives, who make up over 50% of its skilled health workforce.

MSF says the adoption of the motion is part of a move towards a more interdisciplinary approach within the organisation that reflects the reality of projects on the ground and mirrors international best practice.

ICN Chief Executive Officer Howard Catton said: ‘MSF is one of the best known and most revered organisations in the world and its work is recognised everywhere. This new commitment to nurses and midwives is extremely welcome because it acknowledges the central role that nurses and midwives play in the organisation’s vital work. I am sure this new initiative will improve quality and patient-centred care. I have greatly valued the regular contact with nurses from MSF since I joined ICN and recognise their important contributions to our Congress.”

Download the press release here