The Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work (COSW) will play a key role in advancing social work perspectives at the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa from 20 to 26 October 2024, with indispensable support from associations in Aotearoa New Zealand and Fiji. The event will see significant contributions from COSW, with a focus on indigenous-led responses to pressing health and equity challenges in the Pacific region, including the impacts of COVID-19 and the ongoing climate crisis.
A special highlight will be the presentation of a new video advocating for the endorsement of the Commonwealth Charter for Young Carers. This initiative aims to draw attention to the unique roles and challenges young carers face.
David Jones, COSW Main Representative to the Commonwealth institutions and former IFSW President, stated, “This is a pivotal moment for social work in the Pacific. The COSW delegation will elevate the voices of indigenous communities, showcasing how social work grounded in cultural values can provide powerful solutions to global challenges.”
Joachim Mumba, IFSW President and COSW board member, added, “The presence of social work in policy discussions at CHOGM is crucial. We are grateful for the strong COSW delegation representing the profession at this significant event. By integrating indigenous knowledge into global frameworks, we can work together to build sustainable futures across the Commonwealth and beyond.”
The COSW’s active engagement in the Commonwealth Peoples Forum, Youth Forum, and Women’s Forum will ensure that social work continues to influence policy development and civil society initiatives across the Commonwealth.
Read the full COSW press release here.