We are excited to announce the publication of an article that explores the transformation of social work in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a keen focus on building a new eco-social world. This article, drawing from a series of international webinars held in 2022, delves into the reevaluation of professional values amidst the pandemic and other pressing global crises, notably the climate emergency. It uncovers the ethical dilemmas faced by social workers, such as self-care, digital working, and navigating reduced bureaucracy, while highlighting the importance of holistic, community-based approaches that weave together the social, health, and economic strands of human life.
Dr Jane Shears, IFSW Global Ethics Commissioner and one of the authors, commented: “In essence, the article advocates for a radical re-evaluation of social work to incorporate eco-social justice that goes beyond human benefits and embrace a holistic perspective on life. It calls for a shift in social work towards a more eco-social approach that integrates care for people and the planet, urging social workers to actively participate in political campaigns that develop practices embodying compassion, sustainability, and equity”.
This shift is seen as essential for addressing the global challenges of climate change and social inequity, positioning social workers as key agents in the movement towards a more sustainable and just world.
The article freely available for download here.