Investments in nursing and midwifery workforces are a key driver of effective health systems, thriving populations, improving health outcomes and prosperous economies. Government chief nursing and midwifery officers (GCNMOs), leaders and representatives of national nursing and midwifery associations and regulators, together with the International Council of Nurses(ICN),the International Confederation of Midwives(ICM) and the World Health Organization (WHO) gathered at the 7th ICN-ICM-WHO Triad meeting in Geneva, Switzerland from 16-19 May 2018.