From 6 to 8 October 2025, over 600 social workers, educators, and researchers from across Europe and beyond gathered in Oslo for the IFSW Europe Regional Conference followed by a smaller, moving two day after-conference on Indigenous Social Work in Alta, Sápmi in the far north of Norway, from 9 to 10 October. Both conferences were organized in collaboration with Fellesorganisasjonen, the Norwegian Union of Social Educators and Social Workers.
Together, these events created a powerful space for reflection, learning, and solidarity, highlighting how social work is central to building a sustainable, caring, and inclusive future for all at national and international levels.
The Oslo conference centred on the theme Green Social Work, Climate Change, the UN’s Sustainability Goals, and Indigenous Perspectives, exploring the deep interconnections between people, society, and nature. From discussions on eco-social democracy and de-colonising social work to reflections on climate adaptation, disaster response, education and the future of work for a sustainable future, the sessions reaffirmed that the profession is and must be at the heart of global transformation.
The conferences attracted contributions from international thought and practice leaders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. They also provided important opportunities for researchers and practitioners at all stages of career to present their work and innovations, and offered highly successful field visits to projects and services around Oslo.
“Social workers are uniquely placed to connect human rights, environmental justice, and community resilience. We have a key role in multidisciplinary leadership and action at local, regional and international levels,” said Dr Ruth Allen, IFSW Europe Regional President. “This conference showed how our profession can support and empower societies to adapt and thrive, even in the face of global uncertainty. The energy and solidarity that emerged throughout the days in Oslo were truly inspiring. There is so much to do and there is urgency. These conferences showed the incredible strength, commitment and creativity of social workers to defend, protect and enhance the wellbeing of humans and all of nature”
IFSW President Dr Ruth Allen
The conference also placed strong emphasis on the importance of self-care for social workers, recognising that caring for others requires nurturing one’s own well-being. Sessions led by social workers provided deep insight and encouragement, reminding participants that personal wellness and professional resilience are inseparable.
Andreas Pedersen Kikvik, IFSW Europe Regional Vice President, reflected: “In Oslo and Alta, we felt a profound sense of unity and purpose. From the energy of the conference hall to the quiet strength of the Sámi lands, we were reminded that social work begins with listening to people, to the earth, and to one another.”
The post-conference in Alta offered a deeply moving and enriching experience. Engaging with Sámi history and culture invited participants to confront the painful legacies of colonialism and to learn from the resilience and wisdom of Indigenous communities. It was a space of listening and learning, where stories of strength and belonging resonated deeply. As the Northern Lights illuminated the Arctic sky, the gathering became a living symbol of connection, hope, and renewal.
Session on Indigenous Perspectives in Alta, North Norway.
Joachim Cuthbert Mumba, IFSW Global President, shared: “What we have experienced here in Norway captures the heart of our global movement, a profession grounded in solidarity, humility, and co-creation. The lessons from Oslo and Alta will continue to inspire social workers worldwide.”
IFSW President, Joachim Mumba
Pascal Rudin, IFSW Interim Secretary-General, added: “These conferences were not only about knowledge-sharing but about building bridges between people, cultures, and generations. They remind us that sustainability is as much about relationships as it is about resources. Together, we are co-building hope and harmony.”
On behalf of IFSW Europe, Ruth Allen warmly thanked Andreas Pedersen Kikvik for his outstanding leadership in Fellesorganisajonen organising and hosting both conferences. Deep appreciation was also extended to Marianne Solberg, President of FO, and Ole Henrik Kråkenes and the whole Norwegian team for their generous hospitality and tireless commitment.
The spirit of Oslo and Alta will continue to echo throughout the IFSW’s work, inspiring the Federation’s ongoing efforts to build an eco-social world rooted in dignity, justice, and care. European members will continue to have opportunities to come together and progress eco-social work. Events and opportunities to get involved will be posted in regional communications and on the IFSW website.
