International Council of Nurses (ICN)
Website: http://www.icn.ch/
Category: Health
Year of Foundation: 1899
Location of Foundation: London, UK
Location of Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Brief Description: The International Council of Nurses describes itself as 'the world’s first and widest reaching international organisation for health professionals. Operated by nurses for nurses, ICN works to ensure quality nursing care for all, sound health policies globally, the advancement of nursing knowledge, and the presence worldwide of a respected nursing profession and a competent and satisfied nursing workforce.' (Source: www.icn.ch; accessed 13 January 2010).
Founding Rationales:
Its constitution adopted in July 1900 described its objectives as '(a) To provide a means of communication between the nurses of all nations, and to afford facilities for the interchange of international hospitality. (b) To provide opportunities for nurses to meet together from all parts of the world, to confer upon questions relating to the welfare of their patients and their profession.'
Source: 'Report of the International Council of Nurses. Berlin, 1904.' (London, 1904), p. 110.
Evolution of Membership:
Sources: www.icn.ch; YIO