World Social Work Day: April 15, 2008

Social workers worldwide celebrated World Social Work Day on April 15, 2008. This annual event highlights the contributions of the profession to society and is part of ongoing dialogue programs among many social work organizations to help communities better meet their societal needs.

The overarching theme for World Social Work Day is "Social Work – Making a Difference," initiated by the International Federation of Social Workers. Based on this central theme, individual countries determine the appropriate time and theme for their respective nations.

Social work has made and continues to make positive contributions to effectively addressing economic and social problems and to assisting individuals and communities. Social work promotes the social well-being of individuals, groups, and communities, strengthens social cohesion at all stages of development, protects vulnerable individuals in the community, and fosters collaborative relationships with service users, communities, and other professionals.

Social workers support disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities in addressing difficulties and challenges, and have a positive impact on their lives. Social workers also make essential contributions to strengthening social cohesion through prevention and intervention programs for social problems. Therefore, social work becomes a worthwhile investment for the present and future of society and the community.

The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) was founded in 1928. Through its development, the Federation has become a representative organization for professional social workers globally. Today, IFSW has over 500,000 members in 84 countries. The Federation has been recognized as a special advisory body by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Japan and UNICEF. Furthermore, IFSW collaborates with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and various UN programs in addressing HIV/AIDS and other issues.

• Tran Van Kham
(According towww.ifsw.org)