International Council of Nurses welcomes Urdhri i Infermierit të Shqipërisë as new member association
The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is pleased to welcome the Urdhri i Infermierit të Shqipërisë (Order of Nurses of Albania, AON) as its newest National Nursing Association member, further strengthening the global voice of nursing and expanding ICN’s representation of nurses worldwide.
The admission of AON marks an important milestone for the nursing profession in Albania and reflects the organization's commitment to advancing professional standards, protecting public health, and supporting nurses and other health professionals throughout the country.
As the professional organization responsible for regulating and supporting nursing and allied health professions in Albania, AON plays a vital role in overseeing the licensing, registration, and ethical conduct of nurses and other healthcare professionals. The organization promotes continuous education, professional development, and adherence to professional standards, while collaborating with national and international partners to strengthen healthcare quality and patient care.
ICN President José Luis Cobos Serrano welcomed AON to the global ICN family.
"ICN is honoured to welcome the Urdhri i Infermierit të Shqipërisë to our global community of National Nursing Associations. Strong nursing professions are built on professional standards, ethical practice, lifelong learning, and public trust, and AON plays a vital role in advancing these foundations in Albania. At a time when health systems around the world are facing growing challenges, the leadership of professional nursing organizations has never been more important. We look forward to working closely with AON to strengthen nursing leadership, support professional excellence, and ensure that the voice of nursing continues to shape the future of health care in Albania and beyond."
The President of the Albanian Order of Nurses, Ms. Blerina Duka, expressed her pride and optimism in joining the ICN network:
“We firmly believe that Albanian nurses, standing together with their colleagues across the globe, will play a meaningful role in advancing healthcare and strengthening our profession. In a time marked by complex and evolving challenges, our organization recognizes more than ever the importance of solidarity, cooperation, and a shared purpose. Joining the ICN network represents not only a source of pride, but also an opportunity for our council to actively contribute to the progress, recognition, and global impact of nursing.”
AON represents and supports nurses and allied health professionals across Albania, promoting high standards of professional practice, lifelong learning, ethical conduct, and quality care. Through its work, the organization contributes to the development of a strong and competent health workforce while safeguarding the interests of both healthcare professionals and the public they serve.
The admission of AON further reinforces ICN’s mission to ensure that nursing perspectives are represented in health policy and decision-making at national, regional, and global levels.
ICN looks forward to working closely with AON to advance nursing leadership, professional development, workforce empowerment, patient safety, and the wellbeing of nurses in Albania and around the world.