Policy Determinants of Nurse Workforce Retention and Migration in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA): A Mixed-Methods Policy Analysis (2000–2025)
Description
This study, conducted by Dr. Fernan N. Torreno (St. Paul University Manila) and Famiela N. Torreno, LPT, MEd (Universidad de Dagupan), examines the policy and organizational determinants of nurse retention and migration across 18 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries between 2000 and 2025. Using a mixed-methods policy analysis, the research integrates quantitative workforce indicators and qualitative stakeholder perspectives guided by a Policy Determinants Framework adapted from Walt and Gilson. Thirty empirical and policy studies were systematically synthesized following PRISMA 2020 and ENTREQ standards, complemented by 20 anonymized stakeholder interviews. The analysis identified governance quality, wage parity, professional autonomy, and education investment as the strongest predictors of retention. A cross-regional comparison between GCC and non-GCC countries revealed that governance coherence and salary parity drive sustained localization and workforce stability. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, emphasizing the creation of national nursing councils, equitable pay systems, and continuing-education pathways. The study contributes to global health-policy reform by proposing a regional roadmap for achieving sustainable nurse retention and ethical workforce mobility across low- and middle-income contexts.