International Nurses Day is celebrated worldwide every year on May 12 to honor the vital contributions of nurses to healthcare systems and communities. In 2025, the celebration continues to recognize the dedication, compassion, and resilience of nurses who work tirelessly on the frontlines of patient care.
On #InternationalNursesDay, we honour the 30 million nurses who are the heart of health systems worldwide.
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) May 11, 2025
From emergency response to long-term care, from birth to end-of-life, nurses are everywhere health happens.
WHO urges accelerated investments to avoid a projected 4… pic.twitter.com/elLUwgzhI1
The Origin of International Nurses Day
May 12 was chosen to commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale (1820–1910), the pioneer of modern nursing. Her groundbreaking work during the Crimean War and her commitment to hospital sanitation laid the foundation for professional nursing. In recognition of her contributions, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) officially established International Nurses Day in 1974. Since then, it has been marked globally with events, campaigns, and awards that highlight the essential role nurses play in healthcare.
Theme for International Nurses Day 2025
The theme for this year is “Nurses: A Voice to Lead – Delivering Quality, Securing Equity.” This powerful message emphasizes the critical role nurses play not only in providing exceptional care but also in promoting healthcare access and equity for all communities. It reflects their influence in transforming healthcare delivery and bridging gaps in medical care worldwide.
Celebrating International Nurses Day
Nurses are often the first and most constant point of contact for patients. Whether in bustling emergency rooms, intensive care units, rural clinics, or community outreach programs, they provide emotional support, clinical expertise, and life-saving care under immense pressure.
On this special day, hospitals and healthcare organizations across the globe organize seminars, appreciation events, and social media campaigns to honor their nursing staff. It is also a platform to address pressing challenges like staffing shortages, burnout, and the demand for better working conditions. International Nurses Day serves as a powerful reminder that investing in nursing means investing in public health and building a healthier future for all.
Florence Nightingale: The Lady with the Lamp
Florence Nightingale was an English social reformer, statistician, and the founder of modern nursing. Her role as a manager and trainer of nurses during the Crimean War brought her global recognition. Nightingale’s focus on sanitation and hygiene drastically improved the care of wounded soldiers, earning her the title “The Lady with the Lamp,” as she was often seen caring for patients late into the night with a lamp in hand. Her legacy continues to inspire nurses worldwide to this day.
