On this International Day of Peace, the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF), is expressing its support for nurses, midwives and all aid and healthcare workers, and the people they care for, in war zones and conflicts across the world.

‘Cultivating a culture of peace’ is the theme for the 2024 International Day of Peace, marking the 25th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace which promotes respect for life.[1]

ANMF Acting Federal Secretary Lori-Anne Sharp said nurses and midwives were currently working in zones of war and conflict across the world, including Gaza and the Middle East, Ukraine, Africa, Myanmar, Venezuela and Afghanistan.

“The ANMF and its members condemn the killing of innocent civilians, nurses and midwives, and aid and health workers and the bombing and destruction of hospitals, schools, communities and refugee camps,” Ms Sharp said.

“We have been horrified by the scenes of death and escalating violence in global war zones, particularly Gaza and Ukraine – where it never seems to end. We stand in solidarity with individuals and organisations worldwide in advocating for peaceful solutions and a more just society.

“The ANMF opposes war, racism and oppression and we reiterate our calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Ukraine and the release of hostages and political prisoners in Gaza. The death and destruction must end.

“On this day of peace, the ANMF sends a message of hope and solidarity to all those nurses and midwives living and working in zones of war and conflict and all those working toward lasting and peaceful resolutions.

“The ANMF and our members stop today and reflect on a comment in 2023 from the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Chief Executive Officer Howard Caton, who said ‘…because of their trusted position within communities, nurses can play a critical role in bringing people together, building the wider partnerships and relationships that are the foundations not just of peace, but of community cohesion as well’.”

[1] https://www.un.org/en/observances/international-day-peace )

The ANMF, with over 326,000 members, is the industrial and professional voice for nurses, midwives and carers in Australia.

ANMF media release authorised by Lori-Anne Sharp, ANMF A/Federal Secretary. 1/365 Queen St, Melbourne.

ANMF media inquiries: Richard Lenarduzzi 0411 254 390