Attending the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Congress is always a source of inspiration, but this year’s event, held under the powerful theme "Nursing: Power to Change the World," was particularly energising. 7000 nurses from every corner of the world came together, uniting diverse voices and experiences under a shared commitment to improving health outcomes, advancing the profession, and reshaping the future of global health.

The Congress was more than just a conference—it was a vibrant hub of knowledge exchange, professional pride, and deep reflection. From policy-shapers to frontline practitioners, the event showcased the breadth and depth of the nursing profession. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as attendees shared their work, ideas, and hopes for the future of nursing-the RCN was well represented, and we shared the work of the Institute of Nursing Excellence.

One of the most striking aspects of the event was the sheer diversity of experiences represented. Nurses working in conflict zones, rural communities, urban hospitals, and research all came together with one shared purpose: to make a difference.

A central highlight was the renewed focus on The State of the World’s Nursing Report 2025, which provided a sobering view of the global nursing workforce. The report underscored ongoing challenges such as workforce shortages, gender disparities, and gaps in leadership opportunities—but also spotlighted the critical contributions of nurses to health systems worldwide.

It reminded us that while progress has been made, much more needs to be done to support, empower, and invest in nurses—especially as we face complex health challenges from pandemics to climate change.

Another pivotal moment was the unveiling of the renewed definition of nursing—an effort that reflects the evolving nature of our work and its growing scope. This updated definition embraces not only the clinical and caregiving aspects of nursing but also its roles in advocacy, leadership, education, and policy-making.

The renewed definition which aligns with the RCN’s definition of nursing, resonates with the realities nurses face today: navigating complex systems, responding to multifaceted social determinants of health, and being catalysts for systemic change. It affirms nursing as a dynamic, holistic, and essential force in shaping healthier societies.

One of the most transformative aspects of the Congress was the networking itself. Informal conversations over coffee turned into discussions on global collaboration. Poster sessions sparked mentorship opportunities. Panel debates ignited new ideas for policy advocacy.

We’ve been working with the ICN on a global accreditation and a global version of the RCNi portfolio partnership. The first stage of this work was completed at congress when Professor Nicola Ranger and the ICN CEO Howard Catton signed a memorandum of understanding for this work.

Ahead of the Congress itself, 140 National Nursing Associations from around the world came together for a 3-day meeting to form the Council of National Nursing Association Representatives (CNR).  Discussion, debate and decisions were made about the work of the ICN, its priority areas and its governance. During the meeting, elections occurred for the new President of the ICN and the new 11 Board of Directors. Prof. Emily McWhirter, Associate Director of the Leadership Academy was elected to the Board to represent the Western European region-congratulations Prof Emily.

There was a strong sense that the collective power of nursing lies not only in individual excellence but also in our ability to connect, learn from one another, and move forward together.

Moving Forward: Nurses as Changemakers

The ICN Congress reinforced what many of us already know: nurses are not only caregivers—they are changemakers. They are leaders, educators, innovators, and advocates. With the right support and recognition, nurses truly have the power to change the world.

As we return to our respective communities and workplaces, the challenge now is to harness this momentum. We must continue advocating for policies that support nursing leadership, invest in education and retention, and centre nurses' voices in decision-making processes.

Let this Congress not just be a memory, but a call to action.

This blog was contributed to by Prof Emily McWhirter, Marcus Wootton and Professor David Clarke.

RCN General Secretary, and Chief Executive Prof Nicola Ranger, with ICN CEO Howard Catton