Who are we?
The European Federation of Nurses Associations (EFN) was established in 1971 to represent the nursing profession and its interests to the European Institutions, based on the nursing education and free movement Directives. The EFN is the independent voice of the nursing profession, representing more than 1.5 million nurses at European Level.
Who do we represent?
The EFN members are drawn from the National Nurses Associations from 30 Member States of the European Union (including the 27 EU Member States), which are in membership with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) and the Council of Europe, and its associated members are three mandated representatives of the European Nursing Specialist and Generic Organisations (ESNO). The International Council of Nurses (ICN), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Nursing Students Association (ENSA) are also holding observer status within EFN General Assemblies.
What is our mission?
The EFN mission is to promote and protect nurses and the nursing profession with particular reference to the EU, by lobbying the European Institutions (European Commission, European Parliament and Council of Europe). The EFN aims to bring to the attention of the EU the current and potential collaboration of nurses and nursing to meeting the health needs of the population throughout the Union.
What do we do?
The EFN policy work is taken forward by its three committees: 1.Professional Committee: focussing in education, in specific Directive 36, Continues Professional Development and Structural & Social Cohesion Funds, and scanning the progress and legislative impact of Information to Patients; 2.Workforce Committee: focussing on Ethical Recruitment Guidelines and Skill needs and skill mix. The Committee scans also the legislative progress on needle sticks injuries and Healthcare associated infections; 3.Public Policy Committee: focuses on upcoming legislation and initiatives in the field of Health Services, Patient Safety and Quality of Care.
How do you get involved?
In order to achieve successful policy outcomes, EFN builds alliances with key stakeholders within Civil Society. Through the Council of Europe 4th pillar of INGOs and the European Health Policy Forum, these alliances are strengthened in order to focus on patients and citizens health. Being member of EHPA, EHMA and Health First Europe provides opportunities to build social capacity and joined actions.
For further information on current activities, please visit EFN website
For further information
EPHA related articles
New Executive Committee members for EFN
Development Ministers agree to action on health worker crisis
