The International Federation of Social Workers is delighted to launch the new e-book Professional Social Work Education in the Asia Pacific Region. Development of Registration Systems for Qualification Holders. This publication documents the findings of a major international research initiative and provides one of the most comprehensive overviews to date of education systems, qualification pathways, and registration practices across the Asia Pacific region.
The Asia Pacific is one of the most diverse regions in the world. It brings together countries with a wide range of cultural, political, social, and educational traditions. This diversity creates both opportunities and challenges for the development of strong, coherent social work systems. The new publication responds to these complexities by offering an evidence based foundation that will support governments, universities, professional associations, and practitioners in strengthening social work education and accreditation. It also provides a valuable resource for the wider IFSW network, since the findings speak directly to global conversations about standards, ethics, and the shaping of future professional frameworks.
The book covers fourteen country and territory studies and highlights how education, practice, and professional regulation are evolving across the region. It aims to support international cooperation, enhance professional recognition, and contribute to the development of robust and culturally grounded systems of qualification and registration.
Reflections from the Editors and the Publisher
Machiko Ohara, IFSW Asia Pacific President, said: “We hope this publication becomes a platform for connection, learning, and solidarity. The region is facing rapid social changes and increasingly complex challenges. Strengthening our education and registration systems is essential for supporting the next generation of social workers and ensuring that they are prepared to respond with competence, compassion, and cultural insight.”
Viktor Virág, IFSW Asia Pacific Treasurer, added: “This e-book represents a truly collective achievement. Each contribution demonstrates the commitment of scholars and practitioners who are nurturing strong professional identities within their own contexts. The insights gathered here will inspire future research, collaboration, and innovation both within Asia Pacific and across the global social work community.”
Mariko Kimura, IFSW Asia Pacific Representative to the Education Commission, emphasised: “The comparative perspective of this study is particularly valuable. It allows us to better understand the similarities and differences across our countries, identify gaps, and learn from one another. I hope this publication will encourage ongoing dialogue and further development of supportive registration systems that sustain high quality social work practice.”
Pascal Rudin, IFSW Interim Secretary-General, commented: “With this publication, the Asia Pacific region offers an important resource to our entire Federation. It demonstrates the strength of regional scholarship and the commitment to professional excellence. The findings will enrich conversations across all IFSW regions as we work together to support social work education, build recognition for the profession, and enhance our shared capacity to serve communities. My warmest congratulations to the editors and to all contributors.”