The Swedish nursing profession gained significant political representation when Gerda Höjer assumed office in the Second Chamber of the Riksdag in 1949. Serving concurrently as a nurse, politician, and executive board member, she bridged the gap between clinical practice and legislative reform until 1960, influencing Swedish medical care policy throughout the postwar era.
Professional Leadership
Based in Stockholm, Höjer held a pivotal role at the Swedish Society of Nursing, serving as its president from 1945 to 1960. Her administrative influence extended globally when she took on the presidency of the International Council of Nurses in 1947. These positions allowed her to shape organizational standards and advocate for the nursing profession on both a domestic and international scale.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Legislative Career
During her tenure as a member of the Second Chamber of the Swedish parliament, representing the Liberal People's Party, Höjer focused her efforts on social issues. Her legislative agenda prioritized health and medical care policy, leveraging her extensive background in nursing to inform parliamentary debates. She maintained this dual career path until her departure from both the Riksdag and her nursing society roles in 1960.
Decorations and Legacy
Höjer received several international honors acknowledging her contributions to public health. The International Committee of the Red Cross awarded her the Florence Nightingale Medal in 1953. Her other distinctions included the Royal Order of Vasa, the Order of the White Rose of Finland, and the King Haakon VII Freedom Cross. Following her death in 1974, she was interred at Norrbärke cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1893, Visby parish
- Died: 1974, Norrbärke församling
- Citizenship: Sweden
- Parliamentary service: 1949-1960
- International Council of Nurses President: 1947
- Florence Nightingale Medal: 1953
- Primary employer: Swedish Society of Nursing
- Political affiliation: Liberal People's Party
Questions readers ask
What was the duration of Gerda Höjer's parliamentary term?
She served as a member of the Second Chamber of the Riksdag from 1949 until 1960.
Which international organizations did she lead?
She served as president of the International Council of Nurses starting in 1947.
Achievements
- Florence Nightingale Medal — 1953
- Order of the White Rose of Finland
- Royal Order of Vasa
- Held posts at Swedish Society of Nursing