Blog: ‘A Social Europe is possible! The young generation of Social Workers are the spearhead of change’

It was clear that BASW has built some very important relationships within Europe which I see as contributing positively to the developing future and ongoing progression of Social Work.

By Nadeen Brown

Throughout the 6th and 7th of November, I was able to attend the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) European Delegates Meeting.

This opportunity came about due to being selected to represent BASW in a new youth scheme project.  

IFSW has developed a  project titled ‘A Social Europe is possible! The young generation of Social Workers are the spearhead of change.’ This involves several young Social Work European representatives working together to create a policy statement for the transfer of young social workers from education to employment.

Being a part of the new generation of Social Work professionals in this international space, it was clear that IFSW aims to ensure that Social Work is a long-lasting and inclusive profession as well as an environment that values the new voices, and recognises the ever-changing society we live in.

This opportunity provided me with the chance to witness a diverse group of Social Workers come together and discuss Social Work on a global and European scale.

For me, this reiterated the importance of global Social Work and the involvement of countries around the world.  Being able to address the worldwide dynamics that shows social injustices and how Social Work contributes to changing this and being relevant.

BASW demonstrated a great presence and involvement in several aspects of the IFSW meeting. This included a populism report and segment.  I believe this was vital in the current global political climate that we are in, it was clear this was a very thought-provoking topic for many.

It was clear that BASW has built some very important relationships within Europe which I see as contributing positively to the developing future and ongoing progression of Social Work.

As a young Social Work student, it was enlightening to see how IFSW Delegates meeting provided an environment that gave all countries the opportunity to strengthen the quality of Social Services while upholding core Social Work values as one uniting profession.

For me, this reiterated the importance of global Social Work and the involvement of countries around the world. Being able to address the worldwide dynamics that shows social injustices and how Social Work contributes to changing this and being relevant.
Nadeen Brown