Statement from IFSW on social crisis in Europe

The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) Europe member organisations have jointly released a statement expressing concern at the growing social crisis in Europe.

Delegates representing social worker organisations from across Europe are currently in Vienna at the IFSW Europe 2019 conference and have shared stories revealing the human cost from continued austerity policies and a political shift to populism.

A number of points are highlighted in the statement, such as the rise of nationalism, which is frequently expressed as negative views of minority communities and individuals within countries; and the need to demonstrate the same honesty, integrity and use of polite language in politics as is expected in effective social work practice.

The statement declares “…social workers believe that those European citizens who are struggling deserve better from their leaders and politicians”.

It also states, “social workers stand for respect for all people”, and will “hold European institutions, governments and organisations to account to promote the values of a common humanity”.

BASW is reinforcing the importance of social workers and citizens working together to pursue positive values for a cohesive and equal society.

The full statement from IFSW Europe can be read here.

Several delegates from BASW and SWU present at the conference have helped shaped the statement, including BASW chief executive Ruth Allen and chair Gerry Nosowska.

A summary report of the delegates meeting at the conference will be made available soon.