Nursing Shortage Shrinks Globally, But Gaps Remain

The global nursing workforce has expanded by nearly 2 million since 2018, reaching 29.8 million in 2023, according to a new report released by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Council of Nurses, and other partners. However, the “State of the World’s Nursing 2025” report reveals persistent regional disparities that threaten progress toward universal health coverage and global health security.

The report consolidates data from 194 WHO Member States and presents a detailed analysis of nursing availability across countries and regions. While the global shortage of nurses has declined from 6.2 million in 2020 to 5.8 million in 2023, most gains are concentrated in higher-income regions. About 78% of the world’s nurses are working in countries that represent only 49% of the global population.

The report highlights challenges low and middle-income countries face in training, employing, and retaining nurses. High-income countries, meanwhile, are increasingly dependent on foreign-trained professionals, with 23% of their nursing workforce born abroad, compared to 1% in lower-middle-income countries and 3% in low-income countries.

Despite some countries increasing nurse graduation rates, these gains are often offset by rapid population growth and limited employment opportunities. The report calls on governments to create more jobs for nurses and improve working conditions to prevent attrition.

Aging and retirement trends add complexity to workforce planning. While one-third of nurses globally are under 35, about one-fifth are expected to retire within the next decade. In 20 mostly high-income countries, retirements are projected to outpace new workforce entrants.

The profession remains predominantly female, with women comprising 85% of nurses worldwide. The report also flags insufficient progress in gender equity and leadership development. Although 82% of countries now have a senior government nurse role, only a quarter of low-income countries report having structured leadership development initiatives.

Advanced practice nursing roles are becoming more common, with 62% of countries reporting such positions, up from 53% in 2020. These roles are associated with expanded access and improved quality of care.

Looking ahead, the report outlines policy priorities for 2026-2030. These include expanding and equitably distributing nursing jobs, improving education and career development, enhancing working conditions, strengthening regulations and mental health support, and promoting digital readiness and climate-responsive care.

"A health system cannot be conceived without the presence and fundamental work of nurses," says David Kershenobich, Mexico’s Minister of Health.