Held every two years, the International Council of Nurses Congresses bring together the world’s nurses and related disciplines to share best practice, research and knowledge. The Congress provides a regular opportunity for nurses to build relationships and to disseminate nursing and health-related knowledge.

With the theme “Nurses together: a force for global health”, and in partnership with the Canadian Nurses Association, the ICN 2023 Congress will be a global hub of nursing and other health leaders, bringing together national nursing associations, global health leaders, expert speakers, clinicians, students and academics.

Organised by:
International Council of Nurses (ICN)

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is a federation of more than 130 national nurses associations (NNAs), representing the 28 million nurses worldwide. Founded in 1899, ICN is the world’s first and widest reaching international organisation for health professionals. Operated by nurses and leading nurses internationally, ICN works to ensure quality nursing care for all, sound health policies globally, the advancement of nursing knowledge, and the presence worldwide of a respected nursing profession and a competent and satisfied nursing workforce. 

ICN’s ever-increasing networks and connections to people reinforce the importance of strong linkages with national, regional and international nursing and non-nursing organisations. Building positive relationships internationally helps position ICN, nurses and nursing for now and the future. Our work with the specialised agencies of the United Nations system, particularly with the World Health Organization, the International Labour Organisation and the World Bank, are important for nurses everywhere. In addition, we work closely with a range of international non-governmental organisations and other partners.  

In partnership with:
Canadian Nurses Association (CNA)

The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is the national and global professional voice of Canadian nursing. We represent registered nurses, nurse practitioners, licensed and registered practical nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, retired nurses and nursing students across all 13 provinces and territories. 

We advance the practice and profession of nursing to improve health outcomes and strengthen Canada’s publicly funded, not-for-profit health system.  

CNA speaks for Canadian nursing and represents the profession to other organizations and to governments, nationally and internationally. We give nurses a strong national association through which they can support each other and speak with one voice. We provide nurses with a core staff of nursing and health policy consultants and experts in other areas such as communication and testing. 

Past Congresses

ICN 2021 Virtual Congress

ICN 2019 Congress, Singapore

ICN 2017 Congress, Barcelona

ICN 2013 Congress, Melbourne

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