Global Definitions of Social Work: Insights from IFSW and IASSW

Social work is a profession that has a deep and far-reaching impact on individuals, families, communities, and societies. Its core purpose is to promote social change, social justice, and the well-being of people, particularly the most vulnerable. The definitions of social work have evolved and are influenced by cultural, historical, and political contexts across different regions of the world. Two key international organizations, the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) and the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW), play a crucial role in shaping these definitions. In this blog, we will explore the global definitions of social work provided by these two organizations and highlight their significance in shaping social work practice worldwide.

1. The Role of IFSW and IASSW in Defining Social Work

The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) is a global organization that represents the social work profession in over 120 countries. Established in 1956, IFSW advocates for social justice, human rights, and the development of social work as a profession across the world. One of the key roles of IFSW is to provide a universal definition of social work that transcends borders, cultures, and practices, while still acknowledging the diverse contexts in which social work operates.

The International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW), founded in 1951, represents social work education and works to promote high-quality education and training for social workers worldwide. The IASSW's mission includes the development of standards for social work education and the promotion of global dialogue about social work practice, education, and research.

Both IFSW and IASSW collaborate to promote a shared understanding of social work, bridging differences in practices while recognizing local contexts. Their definitions reflect the values and principles of social work, including human dignity, equality, and the right to participate in decisions that affect one's life.

2. The Global Definition of Social Work by IFSW

The most widely accepted global definition of social work is provided by IFSW, which encapsulates the core functions and values of the profession. According to IFSW, social work is defined as:

"A practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change, development, cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Social work draws on theories of social work, social sciences, humanities, and indigenous knowledge. It engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance well-being."

This definition emphasizes several key aspects of social work:

• Practice-Based and Academic Discipline: Social work is both a practical profession and an academic field of study. It requires professional knowledge, skills, and the ability to apply them in real-world situations. Social work education blends theory with practice to develop well-rounded professionals.

• Promotion of Social Change: Social work aims to challenge and transform structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice. This may involve working to change policies, systems, or practices that affect the marginalized.

• Empowerment and Liberation: Social workers seek to empower individuals and communities to take control over their own lives. This focus on empowerment and liberation helps individuals and communities gain the skills and confidence to overcome adversity and improve their quality of life.

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Social work relies on theories and concepts from a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, economics, and anthropology. Additionally, it acknowledges indigenous knowledge systems that are integral to many local cultures and communities.

• Addressing Life Challenges and Enhancing Well-Being: Social work focuses on addressing a variety of life challenges, including poverty, discrimination, violence, and mental health issues, with the goal of improving well-being and promoting social justice.

3. The Definition of Social Work by IASSW

The International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) works closely with IFSW to develop a unified approach to the definition of social work. While the definition provided by IASSW is consistent with that of IFSW, it emphasizes the educational and developmental aspects of the profession. According to IASSW, social work is:

"A profession that promotes social change, social development, cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Social work integrates theory, research, and practice to build the capacity of individuals, families, communities, and societies to address life challenges and enhance well-being."

This definition has a strong focus on:

• Social Development and Cohesion: Social work contributes to building social cohesion by fostering relationships, networks, and structures that support individuals and communities. It also contributes to sustainable social development by improving living conditions, advancing human rights, and reducing inequalities.

• Integrating Theory, Research, and Practice: Social work is not only practice-based but also grounded in solid theoretical frameworks and research. Social workers use evidence-based practices to understand social issues and intervene effectively.

• Building Capacity: Social work plays a critical role in building the capacity of individuals and communities to address life challenges. This may involve providing education, skills training, advocacy, or support to increase personal and collective resilience.

4. The Significance of a Global Definition of Social Work

The global definitions of social work by IFSW and IASSW serve several important purposes:

• Unity in Diversity: Social work is practiced in diverse cultural, political, and economic contexts. A global definition creates a shared understanding of the profession's values and objectives, while still allowing for the flexibility to adapt practices to local needs and conditions.

• Professional Recognition: A universal definition of social work helps establish the profession as a distinct field with its own principles, methods, and standards. It supports professional recognition and ensures that social workers are valued for their contributions to society.

• Advocacy and Policy Influence: A clear definition helps social workers advocate for social change and human rights at local, national, and global levels. It enables the profession to work effectively with governments, international organizations, and communities to address social issues.

• Global Collaboration: Social work is a global profession that transcends borders. A shared definition promotes international collaboration and enables social workers to learn from one another, share best practices, and work together to address common challenges.

5. Conclusion

The global definitions of social work provided by IFSW and IASSW highlight the profession's commitment to social justice, empowerment, and the well-being of people. These definitions emphasize social work's role in promoting social change, development, and cohesion, while also underscoring its multidisciplinary and academic foundations. By creating a unified understanding of the profession, IFSW and IASSW help ensure that social work remains an impactful and relevant force for good in an increasingly interconnected world.

Whether you are a student aspiring to become a social worker, a practitioner in the field, or someone interested in learning more about the profession, understanding the global definitions of social work is essential for appreciating its scope and potential to shape a better future for all.

Bibliography

1. International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). (2014). Global Definition of Social Work. International Federation of Social Workers. Retrieved from https://www.ifsw.org.

2. International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW). (2014). Global Definition of Social Work. International Association of Schools of Social Work. Retrieved from https://www.iassw-aiets.org.

3. Gray, M., Coates, J., & Hetherington, T. (Eds.). (2013). Social Work Theories and Methods. Sage Publications.

4. United Nations. (2018). Social Work and Social Development: A Contribution to the Global Agenda for Social Work and Social Development. United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Retrieved from https://www.un.org.