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Update on the review process of the Definition of Social Work

Information Type: NewsTopic: Social Work

April 10, 2013

The International Executive Committee of IFSW and the Board of IASSW have both agreed upon a ‘point-in-time’ Draft International Definition of Social Work that takes into account the feedback and submissions received so far. This new draft formally starts the final consultation phase, which is from April to December 2013. After this consultation representatives from both IFSW and IASSW will review new feedback and revise the draft accordingly. This final draft will then be presented to the IFSW General Meeting and the IAASW General Assembly for a membership vote in Melbourne in July 2014.

The point-in-time draft that has been endorsed by both IFSW and IASSW Executive/Board in March 2013 is as follows:

The social work profession facilitates social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing.

The above definition may be amplified at national and/or regional levels.

Please add your voice to the new point-in-time definition by writing your feedback using the comments box on our webpage at http://www.ifsw.org/get-involved/global-definition-of-social-work/ or by writing to

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Keywords: definition of social workRegion: GlobalLanguage: English

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Key documents

  • Global Definition of Social Work
  • Global Social Work Statement of Ethical Principles 
  • The Role of Social Work in Social Protection Systems
  • The People’s Charter for a New-Eco Social World

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