The Crisis of Shortage of Nurses in Iran and Their Emigration

Iranian nurses are increasingly being forced out of the profession they once served with courage and sacrifice. Chronic structural crises and the regime’s neglect of their demands have led many to quit or seek refuge abroad.Women make up more than 80% of Iran’s nursing workforce. Not only do they endure grueling shifts and emotional exhaustion, but they also face systemic gender discrimination. These women often shoulder both professional and domestic caregiving roles, stretching their physical and emotional limits.Delayed bonuses, temporary 89-day contracts, salaries rarely exceeding 10–15 million tomans (approx. $150–250/month), and a lack of job security have compelled many to abandon their posts—despite deep professional commitment.Meanwhile, in destination countries, these same nurses are welcomed with dignity, fair compensation, and safer working conditions.Estimates suggest that 50,000 to 60,000 nurses in Iran are either unemployed, have left their jobs, or are unwilling to return to the profession. Every year, 1,800 to 2,000 nurses walk away from nursing altogether. This trend illustrates that retaining existing personnel is becoming a monumental challenge.Support the show