In the first part of the year, EFN has lobbied continuously the EU Institutions for policies that adequately address the core challenges and expectations of frontline nurses, mainly better working conditions through Safe Staffing Levels, and more attractive career pathways through Advanced Practice Nursing (APN).
In this regard, the focus has gone to the European Parliament developments, including the EMPL-SANT Own-Initiative Report (INI) on the EU Health Workforce, which was endorsed by the Committees with strong support in June; the EMPL Own-Legislative Initiative (INL) on Psychosocial Risks, and the SANT INL on Patients’ Rights in Cross-Border Healthcare. Moreover, EFN continues to work closely with the European Commission, namely in the context of the DG EMPL Skills Portability Initiative Actions 2 & 3. Finally, EFN followed the developments linked to the Cypriot and Irish EU Presidencies, and continues to be engaged in the EU-projects KEEPCARING and ICUData4EU.
Therefore, after an intense first half of the year, and before going into a full second lobby half of the year, it is time to take first a good rest. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all EFN Members and colleagues a wonderful and relaxing summer break. Enjoy it to the fullest!
Paul De Raeve
EFN Secretary General