The Nordic welfare States are frequently highlighted in international welfare debates as exemplary models of success. However, welfare states are dynamic entities that undergo continuous transformation. These transformations inevitably impact social work, often exerting pressure and presenting challenges to the profession. This conference seeks to examine the evolving landscape of social work and its interplay with changes in the welfare state.
Several political trends have notably influenced social work, including workfare policies and supply-side economic reforms characterized by ongoing adjustments in benefits and interventions. As a result, the Nordic countries no longer distinguish themselves by low inequality and low relative poverty, though welfare states still differ. The changing global structures, political climate, and prevailing ideologies are also evident in the Nordic context. Political debates and shifts concerning the scope and extent of the welfare state’s social responsibilities are prominent, particularly in areas such as employment, care, child protection and integration. These developments necessitate a focus on service users and expanding areas of vulnerability.
In the area of governance, New Public Management has been predominant for several years. However, there is growing criticism of this approach and experimentation with alternative governance models, such as New Public Governance, which emphasizes trust, inclusion, and partnerships. Organizational reforms and interprofessional collaboration are also pivotal, alongside an increasing recognition of civil society’s essential role. Regarding citizens, the emphasis is on rights and fostering meaningful engagement, where service users are regarded as equal participants. However, professionals often experience dilemmas and cross pressure in practice.
The evolving perspective on knowledge also shapes development. The emphasis on evidence and evidence-based practice has been significant for several years, and more recently, the potential for data driven steering has gained attention. At the same time, the profession advocates for the inclusion of holistic, relational and reflective practice.
This conference aims to illuminate social work within the context of the Nordic welfare states’ evolution over recent decades, exploring the implications for practitioners, citizens, education, and the profession.
The conference poses the following questions, among others:
- What new forms of participation characterize the development, and how do power and powerlessness appear for professionals and service users in contemporary social work?
- What do new political reforms mean for the handling of social problems and social efforts in a dichotomy between rupture and continuity?
- What do new governance measures mean for the practice of social work, the scope of action for social workers, and the situation of service users?
- How does the profession attempt to influence development towards professional ideals?
- How do educational institutions handle the changing situation?