This comprehensive thematic overview examines the critical role of nursing in strengthening European health systems, particularly regarding care quality and patient safety. The text identifies a severe nursing crisis driven by workforce shortages, professional burnout, and the increasing complexity of an ageing population’s needs. To address these challenges, the authors propose evidence-informed strategies for investing in professional education, modernising regulatory frameworks, and improving work environments. The analysis highlights how advanced nursing roles can increase healthcare access and provide significant economic value to society. Additionally, the sources examine the impact of nurse migration and the necessity for robust data to inform effective workforce planning across different nations. Ultimately, the work serves as a strategic roadmap for policymakers to empower the nursing profession and build more resilient, people-centred healthcare systems.

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“This translation was not created by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies. WHO and the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies are not responsible for the content or accuracy of this translation. The original English edition shall be the binding and authentic edition”