Stifled Progress - International Perspectives on Social Work and Social Policy in the Era of Right-Wing Populism

Social work is facing cross-border encroachments and attacks by right-wing populist movements and governments. The authors examine how social work can respond effectively to nationalism, exclusion, de-solidarization, and skepticism about science and position itself against this background. The book explores different conditions in Germany, France, Poland, Russia, and the US.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Verlag Barbara Budrich

Social work, as a democratically constituted profession dedicated to human rights, is currently facing cross-border encroachments and attacks from right-wing populist movements and governments. In Germany, particularly with the Bundestag elections in September 2017, there is growing concern about the extent to which right-wing populist forces are successful in influencing public discourse with xenophobic and nationalist arguments. The authors of this book examine how social work can effectively respond to these challenges. They explore various conditions in Germany, France, Poland, Russia, and the United States, examining the ways in which social work can counter nationalism, exclusion, de-solidarization, and a general skepticism about science.

The book highlights the importance of social work in promoting social cohesion, combating discrimination, and advocating for the rights of vulnerable groups. It emphasizes the need for social workers to be aware of the political context in which they operate and to develop strategies to engage with communities and policymakers in a way that promotes social justice and human rights.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of social work in responding to the rise of nationalism and exclusion. The authors argue that social work can play a crucial role in countering the narratives of nationalism and promoting a sense of belonging and inclusion. They suggest that social workers can work to build bridges between different communities and promote dialogue and understanding between different groups.

Another theme of the book is the importance of social work in promoting social cohesion and combating discrimination. The authors argue that social work can play a vital role in promoting social inclusion and reducing social inequality. They suggest that social workers can work to address the root causes of social exclusion, such as poverty, discrimination, and social exclusion, and promote policies that address these issues.

The book also explores the challenges of social work in a globalized world. The authors argue that social work can play a role in promoting social justice and human rights on a global scale, but that it faces unique challenges in doing so. They suggest that social workers can work to build international networks and partnerships and promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices in social work.

Overall, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of social work. It offers insights into the challenges facing social work in a rapidly changing world and provides practical strategies for social workers to respond to these challenges. The book is particularly relevant to social workers working in Europe, but its insights are also relevant to social workers working in other parts of the world.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 150 x 210 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783847422525