The 16th Eurasia Forum of Social Workers convened from 2–4 July 2025 at Yeungnam University in Daegu, Republic of Korea, under the timely and compelling theme: “Building Bridges for Intergenerational Cooperation: Social Welfare in the Context of Population Change.”
Bringing together social work professionals, academics, students, and policymakers from across Asia, Europe, and Africa, the Forum reaffirmed its reputation as a vibrant platform for professional exchange, intercultural dialogue, and solidarity in the face of evolving global challenges.
In his opening address, IFSW President Joachim Mumba underscored the importance of intergenerational collaboration in addressing the complex dynamics of population change. He called on social workers worldwide to respond with actions grounded in the profession’s enduring values of justice, dignity, and inclusion. Quoting a traditional Korean proverb, “If ten people each add a spoonful, there is enough rice for one person to eat”, he illustrated the transformative power of collective effort and shared responsibility.
Joachim Mumba, IFSW President
Antonina Dashkina, who has led the Forum since its founding in 2005, reflected on two decades of progress. She noted that the Eurasia Forum has provided thousands of social workers with opportunities to connect across borders, share expertise, and forge enduring institutional partnerships through memorandums of understanding and academic cooperation.
She highlighted the richness of this year’s theme, noting its cross-generational resonance, featuring speakers ranging from 14 to 82 years old. “This is precisely the intergenerational bridge we set out to build,” she said, adding that the Forum continues to serve as a symbol of unity between Asia and Europe – bringing professionals together without barriers.
Antonina Dashkina, Outgoing Eurasia Forum President
Dashkina recounted the Forum’s humble beginnings as an annual meeting between Korean and Russian social workers, and how it has evolved into a respected international gathering for collaboration and learning. In her closing remarks, she formally passed the leadership baton to Mr. Sug Pyo Kim, a long-time contributor to the Forum and a steadfast advocate for the rights and welfare of older persons.
Mr. Kim, currently President of the Daegu Council on Social Welfare and former Vice President of the Korea Association of Social Workers, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His contributions to past Forums, along with his service as the IFSW Asia Pacific representative to the United Nations, mark him as a respected and visionary leader. His appointment signals a new chapter of growth and innovation for the Forum.
Kim Sug-Pyo, Incoming Eurasia Forum President
The 2025 Forum featured thought-provoking keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, and skill-building workshops focused on strengthening social welfare systems in the context of demographic shifts. Participants shared best practices, personal narratives, and policy insights aimed at improving social work responses and advancing social justice.
President Mumba expressed appreciation to the Forum’s co-organisers for their vision and collaboration – namely the Daegu Council on Social Welfare, Korea Association for International Social Work, Russian Federation of Social Workers, Philippine Association of Social Workers Inc. (PASWI), and the Social Work Professional Council of Thailand (SWPCT). The informal yet strategic partnerships within this network were recognised as essential to sustaining the spirit and practice of global social work cooperation.
He also commended Yeungnam University and its private sector partners for supporting broad access and inclusion, enabling participation from a diverse range of professionals.
Looking ahead, President Mumba extended a warm invitation to all Forum participants to attend the 2026 Joint World Conference on Social Work, Education and Social Development in Nairobi, Kenya – offering the heartfelt message: “Karibu sana – you are most welcome.”
As part of his broader engagement in Korea, President Mumba delivered a public lecture on 7 July at Yeungnam University. He engaged directly with students and leaders of Community Social Welfare Centres, discussing the evolving role of the profession in a rapidly transforming global landscape.
On 11 July, President Mumba paid an official visit to the Korea Association of Social Workers (KASW), where he was welcomed by KASW President Mr. Park Il Kyu. The meeting reaffirmed shared commitments to advancing social work through inclusive leadership, professional solidarity, and global cooperation.
Visit to Korean Association of Social Workers
During the visit, President Mumba outlined IFSW’s global priorities – social justice, climate action, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding through restorative practices, all of which align with the People’s Charter for an Eco-Social World. He also briefed the KASW Board on IFSW’s ongoing governance reform process, launched at the 2024 General Assembly in Panama, aimed at enhancing transparency and participatory leadership.
KASW leaders expressed their continued dedication to IFSW’s mission and their intent to strengthen regional and international collaboration within the Asia Pacific community. The meeting concluded with a shared sense of optimism and mutual trust.
In his closing reflection, President Mumba stated:
“The future of IFSW and the social work profession is in our collective hands. To thrive, we must move forward together – united in purpose and vision.”
This series of engagements in Korea marks a renewed and inspiring chapter in international social work cooperation, anchored on shared values, intergenerational solidarity, and the enduring commitment of social workers to building a just, inclusive, and sustainable world.