The Philippines and Denmark have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) to improve healthcare education and training opportunities for Filipino nurses and healthcare assistants.

The partnership, which targets Filipino healthcare professionals who intend to work in Denmark, aims to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries while addressing the global demand for healthcare professionals, according to the Department of Mirant Workers (DMW).

“By promoting fair, ethical, and sustainable recruitment practices, the JDI seeks to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino workers, aligning with best international practices outlined by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the World Health Organization’s Global Code of Practice,” the DMW statement released on Monday night read.

The signed JDI outlines the creation of a Joint Committee with representatives from the Philippines and Denmark governments tasked with negotiating a memorandum of understanding (MOU) within the next 12 months.

The MOU will formalize the collaboration and lay the foundation for future healthcare training programs and recruitment partnerships between the two nations.

The initiative will enhance the education and training of Filipino healthcare professionals, ensuring they meet Denmark’s high standards in medical and elderly care, including its domestic healthcare needs.

The partnership also emphasizes the need for mutual respect for both nations’ laws and responsible recruitment processes.

The DMW said one of the key goals of the agreement is to ensure adequate welfare and social protection for Filipino healthcare workers in Denmark, with both countries agreeing to provide resources, legal remedies, and social benefits to promote workers’ well-being and safeguard their rights during their employment.

Key areas of cooperation include the development of upskilling programs for Filipino nurses and healthcare assistants and the establishment of a streamlined recruitment process.

The agreement further ensures that Filipino workers will be protected upon arrival in Denmark, including provisions for employment rights, social security, and adherence to Danish labor standards.

The JDI was signed by DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and Danish Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Michael Skjold Mellbin and witnessed by Danish Minister for Foreign Affairs Lars Lokke Rasmussen at the Denmark Ambassador’s residence in Makati City.

A report from local media The Copenhagen Post in June stated that Danish healthcare’s biggest problem is the shortage of professionals according to the Minister for the Interior and Health Sophie Løhde.

“Denmark estimates a shortage of 15,000 employees in the sector by 2035,” the report read. (PNA)