Global Leadership Priorities for Canadian Nursing: A Perspective on the ICN 24th Quadrennial Congress, Durban, South Africa

Abstract

We had the privilege of joining over 5,000 nurses attending the 24th Congress of the International Council of Nurses, held for the first time on the African continent in Durban, South Africa. The Congress inspired us to reflect on how leadership and policy directions in Canadian nursing resonate with global health challenges and opportunities. Dynamic plenary speakers from African countries inspired the conference theme: Leading Change--Building Healthy Nations. Ensuing discussions signalled shifting priorities and urgent implications for nursing leadership and programs of research in Canada and worldwide, in areas of primary healthcare renewal, nursing health human resources sustainability and health interventions for the achievement of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) (United Nations 2009; WHO 2008). Sharing challenges with nurses worldwide, Canadian nurses are privileged with the resources to address these challenges (CNA 2008; WHO 2008). Our experience at the Congress prompted the question: How must Canadian nurses reshape leadership priorities and agendas not only in the Canadian context, but also in the mutual interests of health for all? Reflecting upon the themes of the Congress and the leadership role of Canadian nurses, we identify three interconnected priorities: Invest our hearts, souls and resources in primary healthcare renewal. Grapple with the complexity of an equitable and sustainable global nursing human resources system. Ensure a lens of social justice through leadership, research and education for the achievement of the MDGs.