European Union standards for nursing and midwifery: information for accession countries

This document was prepared to support implementation of the Munich Declaration, which urges all relevant authorities to strengthen nursing and midwifery by improving initial education and access to higher education. It also calls for the establishment of the necessary legislative and regulatory framework. The role and function of the various bodies relevant to health care in the European Union are described as well as various types of European Union legislation. The document reflects the experience of countries that have joined the European Union since 2004, and of those currently engaged in the accession process.