The UN Secretary-General’s Harmony with Nature Report, 2024 has once again highlighted the essential role of social work in driving transformative change. The report draws particular attention to the theme for the Global Agenda for Social Work and Social Development 2024, ‘Buen Vivir: shared future for transformative change’, which was presented at the World Conference on Social Work and Social Development in Panama in April 2024. This theme, rooted in Indigenous philosophy, advocates for collective well-being, environmental sustainability, and a harmonious relationship with nature—values that are central to the social work profession.
This recognition follows the UN’s earlier mention of the IFSW policy, The Role of Social Workers in Advancing a New Eco-Social World, in its 2022 Harmony with Nature Report. This policy, developed in line with The People’s Charter for a New Eco-Social World, advocates for a Holistic Rights Framework, an extension of the UN Human Rights Declaration. This framework proposes the inclusion of social, cultural, and ecosystem rights, along with the broader rights of nature, aiming to address the interconnected global crises of climate change, pandemics, and conflict.
The concepts of Buen Vivir and the Holistic Rights Framework are pivotal to social work because they represent a shift from individualistic approaches to a more collective, integrated model of well-being. They challenge social workers to consider not just human rights but also the health of ecosystems and the rights of nature as vital to the overall well-being of communities. These ideas reflect the growing importance of eco-social work, where social justice is intrinsically linked to environmental justice.
Looking ahead, the focus on these transformative concepts will shape future discussions through regional and global conferences, and numerous webinars designed to engage professionals worldwide. Seminars and webinars will take place globally in the coming months, creating platforms for professionals to continue advancing these crucial discussions.
IFSW President Joachim Mumba expressed his gratitude to the dedicated members of the IFSW Indigenous Commission and UN Commission for their pivotal contributions to this achievement. “This recognition reflects the hard work and collaboration of our members, particularly those within our Indigenous and UN Commissions, who have tirelessly advocated for a more inclusive and sustainable future,” Mumba stated. “Their efforts ensure that social work continues to play a central role in addressing the interlinked crises of our time, from climate change to social justice.”