Increasing the Visibility and Influence of Canadian Nurses within the United Nations System

Founded in 1945, the United Nations (UN) system has become the place where countries come together to discuss complex and multifaceted issues that no one country can tackle alone. Civil society continues to be an integral part of the UN system, supporting the work of various entities and providing expertise on core pillars such as development, human rights and peace and security. Some global nursing leaders have made considerable progress in increasing nursing engagement and visibility across the system; however, representation remains small. Despite a strong appetite to be involved in global public policy, there is also a need to increase awareness and knowledge of how to engage with and navigate key global organizations. Numerous opportunities exist for civil society to participate in, learn from and influence the work of the UN. This article provides Canadian nursing leaders with examples of pathways to explore to become formally affiliated with entities within the UN system.