International Federation of Social Workers

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International Federation of Social Workers

World Social Work Day 2026

Background and History

World Social Work Day will be celebrated on 17 March 2026. The theme for this year, ‘Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society’, highlights the vital role of social work in bringing people together across communities, cultures, and systems to shape a more inclusive and sustainable tomorrow.

The 2026 World Social Work Day theme, “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society”, draws inspiration from the African philosophy of Harambee; a collective call for unity, mutual support, and shared responsibility. In a world increasingly fractured by conflict, inequality, displacement, and ecological crises, the theme is both a reminder and a challenge: that the only sustainable way forward is through cooperation, solidarity, and co-creation.

At its heart, social work is a profession rooted in the values of human dignity, social justice, and community participation. These values affirm that no society can thrive when its people are divided or excluded. The theme therefore underscores the urgent need to restore trust and to rebuild bonds of belonging in fractured communities. Social workers, together with their allies, are uniquely placed to nurture these processes standing with communities, amplifying marginalized voices, and facilitating dialogue across social, cultural, and political divides.
The choice of Harambee is deliberate and symbolic. Literally meaning “pulling together” or “all for one,” Harambee has long served as a rallying call in Kenya and across Africa, mobilising communities for self-help and collective development. Beyond its literal meaning, Harambee embodies the spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility, where every individual contributes what they can for the good of all. In this way, it resonates deeply with the African ethic of Ubuntu; “I am because we are” but with a practical emphasis on joint action and shared effort.

By invoking Harambee, the 2026 theme calls on social workers, governments, institutions, and communities worldwide to join hands in co-building spaces of hope and harmony. It challenges us to move beyond charity towards genuine solidarity, beyond service delivery towards systems change, and beyond divisions towards unity. It reminds us that peace is not merely the absence of violence, but the presence of justice, inclusion, and opportunity.

World Social Work Day 2026 is therefore a global call: to heal divisions, to strengthen resilience, and to shape a fairer and more sustainable future. It urges us to recognise that no single actor can overcome today’s challenges alone whether they be war, inequality, or ecological collapse. Hope and harmony are only possible when we “pull together,” across borders, sectors, and communities.

As a Kenyan proverb teaches us: “Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable.” In the same spirit, this theme affirms that when humanity unites in Harambee – pulling together as one, no adversity is too great to overcome, and no dream of justice, peace, and dignity is beyond reach.

Concept Overview

The 2026 World Social Work Day poster design visually interprets the theme “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.” The central idea of Harambee—a Swahili term meaning “pulling together” or “working together in unity”—is expressed through interconnected forms, harmonious color palettes, and typographic integration that reflects collective strength, community, and forward movement.

1. Visual Language

The poster design emphasizes connection, collaboration, and uplift:

  • Interconnected shapes and lines symbolize individuals and communities coming together, forming a cohesive whole despite differences.
  • Layering and overlapping elements represent unity built from diversity, where each part contributes to the larger vision of hope and harmony.
  • Circular or radiating compositions echo the Harambee spirit of shared energy and collective momentum.

2. Color Palette

The chosen colors convey optimism, warmth, and inclusivity:

  • Warm earth tones evoke community and humanity.
  • Soft blues and greens communicate peace, balance, and healing.
  • Accents of gold or coral suggest hope, light, and forward movement.

Together, the palette reflects both grounded compassion and aspirational unity — embodying the idea of co-building a more harmonious society.

3. Typography

Typography plays a key symbolic role:

  • The bold, interwoven letterforms of “Co-Building Hope & Harmony” suggest collaboration and strength through shared purpose.
  • Organic and rounded type treatments evoke approachability and connection, while clean modern layouts project clarity and inclusivity.
  • Hierarchy and balance between the words “Co-Building” and “Harambee” visually reinforce the idea that progress happens through cooperation.

4. Composition and Layout

The poster compositions use balance and rhythm to mirror harmony:

  • Alternating alignment and spacing create visual dialogue between elements — representing unity amid diversity.
  • The placement of the date and hashtag (#WSWD2026) anchors the design, linking the theme to the global movement of social work solidarity.
  • Whitespace is used purposefully to create breathing room and clarity, symbolizing openness and reflection.

5. Cultural Resonance

The inclusion of the word Harambee invites a cross-cultural interpretation rooted in collective action and social justice — principles central to social work. The design honors this call by integrating motifs that feel global yet grounded, avoiding regional clichés while expressing universal human connection.

Martha Rothblum, Designer

Joachim Mumba, IFSW President, stated: “Social workers are present in every corner of society, standing alongside communities as they navigate adversity. We walk with people as they rebuild bonds, restore trust and strengthen resilience. The call to co-build hope and harmony reminds us that no challenge is too great when we move forward together.This is the spirit of the People’s Charter for an Eco-Social World: an invitation to connect humanity through shared values, shared responsibility and shared hope. It urges us to work collectively for a world where dignity, participation, sustainability and peace form the foundation of our common future.”

A very special thank you goes to designer Martha Rothblum, whose creativity and commitment have shaped the visual identity of this year’s theme.

To learn more about the history of World Social Work Day, please click here.

Download, co-branding and translation

You may download the 2026 World Social Work Day poster by clicking one of the following links: English | Français | Español

For more translations and formats, please click below on ‘Poster Translations’ and ‘Other Formats’.

Co-branding the Poster: All networks,  movements, and organisations that share the values of this poster are welcome to co-brand it by adding their logo alongside the IFSW logo. We also invite you to share with us your initiatives and plans for your #WSWD2026 event. We will upload information about your planned events on this page and distribute it among social workers around the world.

Translating the Poster: We will publish the translation of the World Work Day Poster into your language. Please click below on ‘Submit Translations’.

We also invite member organisations to translate the poster into their own languages. Last year, the poster was translated into 100+ languages highlighting global professional unity and common action. We hope that most organisations will be able to translate the poster into their own language and send it to us to publish it on this page. If this is not possible, please copy the text below, write your translation line by line underneath, and email it to :

  • Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society
  • World Social Work Day
  • 17 March 2026

Thank you all. IFSW will publish your translated poster on this page so that it can be shared across the world (please note that the relevant IFSW member organisation will be asked to approve the translation, which may take a few days).

Videos will be posted here as they become available

Joachim Mumba, IFSW President

Pascal Rudin, IFSW Interim Secretary-General

Events will be posted as they are shared by members.

 

 

 

Panel discussion: “Students to Students: Contemporary Campaigns in Creating Social Cohesion.”

fsu.edu.rs

 

 

 

 

 

 

International Conference on Social Work, Social Sciences, Medical, Health, Allied Sciences, AI Technologies, Co-Building, Hope, Harmony, Unity, Health, Wellbeing, Environment & Sustainable Development 2026
(ICSWSMHASAITCBHHUHWESD-2026)
World Social Work Day, Week & Month 2026 International Celebrations & Commemorations – SHHFI & SRICASW
WSWD 2026 Theme : ‘ Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society ’.

SHHFI. SRICASW in collaboration with IFSW, TPSWAI, GFSRD, PEF, SNRCE, MFCT, International and National Fraternity, invites you all to join us online…

Dates & Timings : 14-Mar-2026 Saturday to 22- Mar-2026, Sunday, & 31-Mar-2026, Tuesday, 06:39 PM onwards (Time Zone : IST, GMT+05:30, INDIA)

WSWD 2026 Online Free Quiz Registration & E-Certificate Form : https://forms.gle/nTpGKxjceDMqoUuz6

Int. Conf. Free Participant Registration & E-Certificate Form : https://forms.gle/5A5WzHAKNUFZCeSE8

Int. Conf. Free Presenter/ Panelist/ Resource Person/ Speaker – Registration & E-Certificate Form : https://forms.gle/Qfj5Khwo3qwTqe1t6

WSWD 2026 & Int. Conf – Overall Feedback & E-Certificate Form : (In Zoom Session)

FREE E-CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS

Int. Conf. Online Platform: Zoom Meeting Joining Link :  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9705503767?pwd=Q1VKVGJOUG4vN1Y0MmNMQllKSk8wUT09 ,

Zoom Meeting ID: 970 550 3767 , Passcode: 2022

Int. Conf. YouTube Channel & Live Sessions : http://www.youtube.com/@wswd2026

Int. Conf. Website & E-Certificates Link : https://www.sricasw.org/wswd2026/worldsocialworkday2026 , https://www.sricasw.org/wswd-2026

Int. Conf. Presenters / Presentation Guidelines : https://www.sricasw.org/presentationguidelines2026

Int. Conf. Free Collaborations/co-signatories Registration : https://www.sricasw.org/collaboration

Int. Conf. Coordinator & Moderator : Sri./Dr. Ravindra R M ,  , +91 9705503767

Inviting Oral / PPT / Poster / Paper – Live&  Pre-recorded Presentations, Workshops, Panelists/Panel Discussions, from Students, Scholars, Academicians, Practitioners of Social Work, Social Sciences & Other Allied Sciences & Technology Disciplines.

Inviting Free Collaborations from Social Work Schools, Departments, Colleges, Institutions, Universities, NGOs, Corporations, Associations from across the World. Be the part of the International Conference & Largest Daily Series of UN SDGs, AKAM@75, Viksit Bharat@2047 Celebrations & Commemorations.

FREE REGISTRATIONS – FREE NOMINATIONS – FREE AWARDS – FREE PRESENTATIONS – FREE PARTICIPATION – FREE E-CERTIFICATES – FREE ISSN/ISBN PUBLICATIONS (SELECTED) – FREE COLLABORATIONS for all.

PRESENTERS/PARTICIPANTS/COLLABORATORS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD, LEAVING NO ONE BEHIND…

No Collaboration Fees. No Registration Fees, No Publication Fees.

After Registration, Presenters are requested to send their Abstract/Full Paper/Summary & other documents to  as per Presentation Guidelines for scheduling their presentations based on feasibility and availability of sessions on first come first serve basis.

See CAPA WSWD Conference here!

 

FORO

PLANES DE GOBIERNO Y SUS PROPUESTAS SOCIALES EN EL MARCO DE LA AGENDA GLOBAL DE TRABAJO SOCIAL Y DESARROLLO SOCIAL: ELECCIONES GENERALES 2026

 

Martes 17 de marzo, de 5:00 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. (Perú)

Formato Híbrido (virtual – presencial)

Presencial: Auditorio de Humanidades

Campus Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú

Av. Universitaria 1801, San Miguel

 

1. Fundamentación

La formación académica y profesional en Trabajo Social cumplirá este 2026, 89 años de trayectoria en Perú y 101 años en América Latina y el Caribe, periodo durante el cual ha contribuido de manera sostenida al desarrollo social, al bienestar colectivo y a la promoción y defensa de los derechos humanos, especialmente en favor de los sectores históricamente excluidos y en situación de mayor vulnerabilidad social.

 

En la actualidad, América Latina y el Perú enfrentan crisis complejas y multidimensionales, expresadas en profundas desigualdades estructurales, múltiples formas de discriminación y exclusión socioeconómica y política, conflictos sociales, degradación ambiental, persistencia de la pobreza y una creciente crisis de los cuidados, con impactos diferenciados según género, edad, territorio y condición étnica, social y racial.

 

Por otro lado, a nivel mundial se conmemora este 17 de marzo el Día Mundial del Trabajo Social, con el tema “Co-construyendo esperanza y armonía: un llamado Harambee para unir una sociedad dividida”, inspirado en la filosofía africana Harambee, que convoca a la unidad, al apoyo mutuo y a la responsabilidad colectiva. Este enfoque pone en valor el rol estratégico del Trabajo Social en la articulación de actores, saberes y voluntades para la construcción de sociedades más justas, inclusivas y sostenibles, en consonancia con la Agenda Global de Trabajo Social y Desarrollo Social: Compromisos para la Acción.

 

Dicha Agenda constituye una plataforma internacional impulsada conjuntamente por la Asociación Internacional de Escuelas de Trabajo Social (IASSW), el Consejo Internacional de Bienestar Social (ICSW) y la Federación Internacional de Trabajadores Sociales (IFSW). Sus compromisos identifican cuatro campos prioritarios de acción a nivel global, nacional y comunitario:

– la promoción de la igualdad social y económica

– el fortalecimiento de la dignidad y el valor intrínseco de todas las personas

– el trabajo hacia la sostenibilidad ambiental

– el reconocimiento de la centralidad de las relaciones humanas para la cohesión y el bienestar social.

 

Considerando, además, el proceso electoral con motivo de las Elecciones Generales de abril de 2026 que se realizarán en Perú, resulta imperativo promover un análisis riguroso, plural y técnicamente fundamentado de las propuestas contenidas en los planes de gobierno de los partidos políticos. Este análisis debe poner especial énfasis en las políticas públicas y sociales; sistemas de protección social; pobreza y vulnerabilidad de grupos priorizados (niñas, niños, adolescentes, mujeres, personas adultas mayores, personas con discapacidad, población migrante y pueblos indígenas); así como en materia de salud, educación, empleo y derechos laborales, cambio climático y demográfico, justicia social y derechos humanos.

En este contexto, la Sección de Trabajo Social del Departamento Académico de Humanidades de la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, la Facultad de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional del Altiplano, la Facultad de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional del Centro, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Católica Santa María de Arequipa, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional San Agustín, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional Faustino Sánchez Carrión, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal y el Comité Peruano de Bienestar Social (COPEBISO), unen esfuerzos para organizar el Foro: “Planes de Gobierno y sus propuestas sociales en el marco de la Agenda Global de Trabajo Social y Desarrollo Social: Elecciones Generales 2026”, concebido como un espacio académico, plural y democrático de diálogo entre la profesión, la academia y actores políticos.

 

2. Objetivos

 

General:

Promover un espacio de análisis, diálogo y reflexión crítica sobre las propuestas sociales contenidas en los planes de gobierno de los partidos políticos participantes en las Elecciones Generales 2026, a la luz de los compromisos de la Agenda Global de Trabajo Social y Desarrollo Social y de los principales desafíos sociales del país.

 

Específicos:

– Analizar las propuestas de política social, protección social y desarrollo humano incluidas en los planes de gobierno desde un enfoque de derechos humanos, género, interseccionalidad y curso de vida.

– Contribuir al fortalecimiento del debate público informado y responsable, promoviendo la participación de la comunidad universitaria y de la ciudadanía interesada.

– Reafirmar el rol ético político y técnico del Trabajo Social en la vigilancia social, el análisis de políticas públicas, sociales y de protección, así como la promoción de sociedades más justas e inclusivas.

 

3. Público objetivo

 

Estudiantes universitarios, docentes, personal administrativo, integrantes de las escuelas de Trabajo Social de las universidades públicas y privadas del país, público interesado.

 

4. Formulario de inscripciones

https://forms.gle/5injTHhx19EZPCv98

 

5. Panelistas

 

Decanas y Directores de las Escuelas de Trabajo Social de las universidades públicas y privadas del país y del Comité Peruano de Bienestar Social.

 

6. Organizan

 

Sección de Trabajo Social del Departamento Académico de Humanidades de la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, la Facultad de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional del Altiplano, la Facultad de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional del Centro, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional de Trujillo, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Católica Santa María de Arequipa, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional San Agustín, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional Faustino Sánchez Carrión, la Escuela de Trabajo Social de la Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal y el Comité Peruano de Bienestar Social (COPEBISO)

 

UniPark Project

Check the video here!

 

 

 

 

Join us in Bangkok, Thailand, for the celebration of World Social Work Day 2026—a dynamic gathering of social workers, academics, policymakers, and partners from across the Asia-Pacific region.

The 9th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Social Welfare and Social Work in Celebration of World Social Work Day 2026

🗓 Date: 30 March 2026

⏰ Time: 09:00 – 12:40 (GMT+7) (Bangkok Time)

📍 Venue: United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok (Hybrid: onsite & online via Zoom and Facebook Live)

Hosted by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security in collaboration with partners across Thailand and the Asia-Pacific region, this landmark event commemorates World Social Work Day 2026 and serves as a regional platform to recognise the vital role of social work. It also aims to strengthen collaboration among government, private sector, civil society, and international organisations—fostering a more connected and resilient social work network for the future.

Under the global theme “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” the event will feature inspiring keynote speeches, high-level panel discussions, and real-world practices that advance social justice, human rights, and inclusive development.

👉 For more details, please see the event poster.

✋🏽 Many Hands, One Vision: World Social Work Day 2026 Celebration 🌍

“Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society”
On the occasion of World Social Work Day 2026, we proudly celebrated at Periyapalam GND in Muthur DS division, Trincomalee District, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, under the global theme of IFSW. This grassroots event went beyond discussion—we brought unity to life through meaningful engagement and creative expression.
Facilitated by KF Farzana [BSW/2021/E-57] (BSW Undergraduate, National Institute of Social Development, Seeduwa, Sri Lanka), youth volunteers and children actively participated, demonstrating their shared commitment to social justice and community harmony.
Alongside the celebration, we reflected on the vital role of social work in empowering communities, with the active involvement of the youth volunteer group formed during our 2026 Final Year Community Work Practice.
This event stands as a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we “pull together” to build a more inclusive, peaceful, and hopeful future.
#WorldSocialWorkDay2026 #WSWD2026 #SocialWorkSriLanka #MuthurYouth #NISD #Harambee #Trincomalee #SocialWorkStudents

World Social Work Day (March 17): “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.”

As part of the celebration, activities such as street drama performances, awareness programs, and academic discussions were conducted. Here are a few pictures highlighting a street drama performed by Master’s 1st year students from the Central Department of Social Work, Tribhuvan University, in Nepal

These activities aimed to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and promote the values of unity and social harmony within our communities.

 

 

 

SOUTH AFRICAN COUNCIL FOR SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS STATEMENT

Click here to check their video!

 

 

World Social Work Day 2026 Celebration

Medical Social Services Department, LASUTH, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria
The Medical Social Services Department of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) commemorated World Social Work Day 2026 on March 17, 2026, under the global theme: “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.”
The celebration commenced with a courtesy visit to the Chief Medical Director (CMD) and members of the hospital management team. The visit was led by the Head of Department (HOD), Dr. Lawal N. Aderemi. In his address, the CMD congratulated the department and expressed his delight in joining social workers to mark a day dedicated to recognizing their invaluable contributions to healthcare delivery. He emphasized that healthcare extends beyond diagnosis and treatment, noting that true healing involves understanding the social, emotional, psychological, and economic realities that shape a patient’s healthcare journey. He highlighted the critical role of medical social workers as advocates for vulnerable patients who coordinate community resources, counsel families, and help remove social barriers that often prevent people from receiving adequate care.
The CMD further acknowledged that, every day in LASUTH, medical social workers serve as a vital bridge between medicine and humanity. They support patients and families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives, helping them navigate illness, financial hardship, emotional distress and the complexities of healthcare system. He pointed out that many patients come to the hospital burdened not only by illness but also by poverty, fear, and uncertainty. However, through compassion, empathy, and professional expertise, medical social workers help restore hope, dignity, and confidence to those who might otherwise feel forgotten. He further emphasized that in a busy tertiary institution like LASUTH, the role of medical social workers is indispensable, as they ensure that care extends beyond the hospital bed.
Following the visit, the department organized an awareness walk around the hospital to promote visibility and appreciation of medical social work services. This was followed by the Harambee Unity Circle, a symbolic gathering where social workers reaffirmed their commitment to unity, collaboration, and the core values of the profession. It was a deeply meaningful and unifying moment for all.
The celebration continued with a workshop held at the MRC Auditorium in a hybrid format. The event featured two insightful lecture sessions delivered by distinguished guest speakers, Prof. Adedeji Oyenuga, who presented on “Building Bridges, Not Walls: A Social Work Approach to Unity and Hope,” and Mrs. Taiwo Aderemi, who spoke on “Co-Building Hope and Harmony in Healthcare: The Role of Medical Social Workers in Patient-Centered Care.” Both presentations aligned strongly with the theme, emphasizing the importance of unity, collaboration, and the transformative role of social workers in fostering hope within healthcare systems and society at large.
As part of the celebration, the department conferred the title of Life Patron on the CMD in recognition of his exemplary leadership, unwavering support, and commitment to the growth of the Medical Social Services Department, particularly in expanding the department and promoting holistic patient care. Additionally, the Director of Clinical Services and Training, Prof. Adebowale Adekoya, was honored as Mentor of the Department for his guidance, mentorship, and dedication to the growth and development of the department. Other partners of the department were also recognized, including Dr. Tola Olukilede, Mr. Paschal Achunine, and Mrs. Bosun Adewale, for their exceptional contributions to patients welfare. The Centre for Mental Health Research and Initiative was also recognized for its outstanding contributions to the advancement of the social work profession and its commitment to empowering individuals and the department.
Several distinguished social workers were recognized and received awards in recognition of their exceptional leadership and remarkable contributions to the advancement of the social work profession. The award recipients include the  Dr. Lawal N. Aderemi ( Head of Department), Mr. Tiri Badmus, Mr. Benedict Isichie (a pioneer social worker in LASUTH), Mr. Fola Oladigbo, Mr. Adegbenro Sode, Mrs. Tolulope Adejoke Hunsu, Mr Segun Okusanya and Mrs. Jumoke Oketola. In addition, Dr. Eniola Oladipo, PhD, was presented with the Motivational Force Award in recognition of her remarkable spirit of inspiration and drive, her dedication to empowering others to achieve greatness and fostering growth, innovation, and success.
The award presentation segment was inspiring, highlighting the impact of dedication, compassion, and professional excellence within the field of social work.
Overall, the celebration was a resounding success. The spirit of Harambee —pulling together was evident throughout the day, as the team demonstrated unity, purpose, and a shared commitment to building hope and harmony in healthcare and society.

On the occasion of the Social Work Month 2026, the Association of Social Workers of Macedonia – ZSRM, Skopje has the honor to invite you to attend a free interactive workshop on the topic “Caring for those who care for others”.

The workshop is intended for all those who take care of others on a daily basis, primarily social workers, but also professional workers from the system of social protection and child protection, carers, educators, as well as for everyone who, in their work or private life, gives support and care to others.

The aim of the workshop is to highlight the importance of social and professional workers in care systems, as well as the importance of self-care. Through the workshop, the importance of self-care will be fostered, practical tools and strategies for coping with stress will be shared, and a space will be created for the exchange of experiences, mutual support.

📅 Date: 26.03.2026 (Thursday)
🕒 Time:18:30
📍 Location: Zoom

🔗 Zoom link to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87451524632?pwd=m08XgnWSKgI1UWeBNo8EQ18NcTCxzU.1

Meeting ID: 874 5152 4632
Passcode: 509748

 

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