Aims, objectives, and strategy of the book

The primary aim of this book is to explore the landscape of Social Work Professional Organizations (SWPOs). SWPOs, defined here as both formal and informal organizations predominantly governed by social workers and not offering direct services to citizens, are essential to the field of social work and may also play a key role in shaping social policy. Despite their relevance – which, as a matter of fact, is easily recognizable to social workers in many parts of the world – it is surprising that SWPOs have been largely overlooked in social work research, with few systematic studies examining their roles, characteristics, and impact.

Without aiming for exhaustive coverage, this volume has three main objectives. First, it seeks to illuminate the multifaceted characteristics and roles of SWPOs. These organizations are key players in shaping the professional identity of social workers, establishing professional and educational standards, advocating for social justice, and influencing policy at both national and international levels. SWPOs act as collective agents, helping social workers navigate their professional landscape and fulfil their mission within complex welfare systems. They operate within the often-intricate realms of social work and social policy and can be quite complex themselves. This book will delve deeply into the characteristics of SWPOs in different countries, examining how these organizations function, their strategic goals, and their potential impact on both the profession and social policies. Second, the book offers a first comparative analysis of SWPOs across different countries and contexts. By examining the evolution and operations of SWPOs in 15 diverse national contexts, the book presents a rare opportunity to compare these organizations across different welfare regimes, professional cultures, and institutional frameworks.