The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Region gathered in the vibrant city of Pilar, Paraguay, for an unforgettable week of solidarity, dialogue, and vision. The 2025 Regional Delegates Meeting (16–17 September) and the International Congress of Social Work (18–20 September) drew together social work leaders, academics, students, and community organisations from across the region and beyond.
Under the powerful theme “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing,” the meetings became a living reflection of the region’s collective strength and its deep-rooted commitment to advancing social justice, equality, and human dignity.
Building a Unified Regional Voice
The Regional Delegates Meeting was marked by remarkable energy and collaboration. Delegates from across Latin America and the Caribbean shared reports highlighting the richness of their experiences, from community resilience initiatives to advocacy for social protection and environmental justice. These exchanges not only showcased the diversity of regional practices but also inspired shared learning and strengthened the bonds of solidarity among member organisations.
Presentations at the Delegates meeting
Kenia Batista, IFSW Regional President and Global Vice-President, expressed her optimism:
“This meeting was a living testimony of what it means to stand together in solidarity. The strength of our region lies in our unity, our shared values, and our unwavering commitment to advancing the dignity and wellbeing of all people.”
Her words echoed the spirit of intergenerational solidarity which has become a unifying call for the profession worldwide. Through dialogue and collaboration, delegates reaffirmed their resolve to speak with one powerful voice in shaping inclusive social policies and strengthening professional standards across the region.
Joachim Mumba, Global President, Kenia Batista, Regional President and Global Vice-President, Gabriela Rodríguez Vázquez, Regional Vice-President and Pascal Rudin, Interim Secretary General
A Congress that Inspired Action
Following the Delegates Meeting, the International Congress of Social Work, held alongside the National Congress of Social Work and the National Congress of Social Work Students, became a vibrant space of reflection, connection, and celebration. Hundreds of participants filled the halls of Pilar with ideas, energy, and hope, united by a shared belief that social work has the capacity to transform societies through compassion, courage, and collective action.
Discussions explored how social workers are uniquely positioned to bridge generations, foster resilience, and promote enduring wellbeing. Themes such as climate justice, migration, poverty reduction, digital inclusion, and social cohesion featured prominently, reminding all participants of the urgency to act and the potential of joint learning across borders.
Gabriela Rodríguez Vázquez, IFSW LAC Vice-President, reflected:
“These days in Pilar showed us the richness of our diversity and the depth of our shared commitment. The conversations among professionals, students, and communities reaffirmed that social work is both a science and an act of care, a profession that transforms lives and societies.”
The congress also became a space to honour the next generation of social workers. The engagement of students, particularly through the National Congress of Social Work Students, demonstrated the region’s investment in leadership development and in ensuring that the values of solidarity and justice continue to thrive in the years ahead.
A Spirit of Global Solidarity
The event also welcomed Joachim Mumba, IFSW Global President, whose presence and words deeply resonated with delegates and participants.
“The Latin America and Caribbean Region continues to show the world that solidarity is not just a concept, it is a way of life. The global social work movement learns from your energy, your creativity, and your collective determination to build a just and inclusive future.”
His reflections connected the work in Latin America and the Caribbean to IFSW’s broader global vision of co-building a world rooted in dignity, inclusion, and mutual care.
Pascal Rudin, IFSW Interim Secretary-General, added:
“The spirit in Pilar was simply extraordinary. The warmth, the vision, and the sense of purpose that filled every discussion embody what IFSW stands for. The region’s commitment to intergenerational solidarity is an inspiration for our entire global community.”
Their participation reinforced the Federation’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between regions and amplifying the voices of social workers who are shaping change in every corner of the world.
Panel at the Regional Conference
A Celebration of Commitment and Hope
The week in Pilar was more than a series of gatherings, it was a celebration of human connection and collective purpose. Hosted with excellence by Gladys Mancuello and her dedicated team, and supported by the outstanding interpretation of Lucía Gandolfi, the events reflected the LAC region’s vibrant spirit of hospitality, creativity, and inclusion.
As the sun set over the riverside city, participants departed with renewed motivation to continue their work, returning to their countries inspired to strengthen intergenerational ties, advocate for social justice, and lead with compassion.
The 2025 LAC events in Pilar will long be remembered as a milestone in the region’s ongoing journey to co-build a future of enduring wellbeing, shared humanity, and hope for generations to come.