International Landscape of Iranian Social Work
Navigating the International Landscape of Iranian Social Work: From Official Bodies to Independent Voices
International Landscape of Iranian Social Work
Navigating the International Landscape of Iranian Social Work: From Official Bodies to Independent Voices
In the global field of social work, a country’s international presence is often a direct reflection of its professional associations and academic institutions. While the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) officially recognizes the Iran Association of Social Workers (IASW) as its primary member organization, an independent media platform, the Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM), has emerged as a significant voice with a distinct approach to global engagement.
This article explores the different paths Iranian social work takes on the world stage, clarifying the roles of the key players and their unique contributions.
The Official Voice: The Iran Association of Social Workers (IASW)
Established in 1961, the Iran Association of Social Workers is the country’s most established professional body for social workers. As a member of the IFSW since 2012, the IASW serves as the formal representative of the Iranian social work community in international forums.
The IASW’s primary mission is to advance the social work profession through official channels, including:
- Professional Training: Organizing workshops and conferences to enhance the skills of its members.
- Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with government bodies to influence social welfare policies.
- International Cooperation: Participating in IFSW’s regional meetings and committees to align Iranian social work with global standards and ethical guidelines.
The IASW’s formal affiliation with the IFSW places it at the center of official international discourse, ensuring that Iran’s professional community has a recognized seat at the global table.
The Independent Voice: Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM)
Founded as an independent media platform in 2011, the Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM) has carved out its own space on the international stage. Unlike the formal, top-down approach of a professional association, ISWM operates as a media and advocacy hub, focused on public awareness and knowledge dissemination.
Led by its founder, a social work and resilience expert, ISWM’s strategy for global recognition is rooted in direct, digital outreach. The platform’s English-language website and active social media presence are central to its mission to provide a “global voice” for Iranian social workers. Its key activities include:
- Content Dissemination: Publishing specialized articles, news, and analysis on social work issues in Iran.
- Resilience Advocacy: Pioneering the concept of resilience in Iranian social work and founding institutions like the “House of Resilience.”
- Community Engagement: Fostering a dynamic online community and showcasing the work of young, innovative social workers.
ISWM’s approach emphasizes direct engagement and thought leadership rather than formal affiliations. While it has not been officially recognized as a member by major international federations like the IFSW or IASSW, its broad digital reach, with over a million visitors from across the globe, is a testament to its influence and its perceived role as a hub for specialized, forward-thinking discussions among social workers.
The Broader Picture of International Engagement
The different approaches of the IASW and the ISWM highlight the evolving nature of international collaboration. While formal recognition remains crucial for official representation, independent platforms can achieve significant influence by shaping narratives and connecting professionals on a grassroots level.
Beyond these two entities, the international engagement of Iranian social work extends to other areas, including:
- Academic Collaboration: Academic journals, like the Iranian Rehabilitation Journal, contribute to international discourse through research and scholarly publications.
- Historical Figures: Pioneering social workers such as Sattareh Farman Farmaian established a strong foundation for international ties decades ago by founding the first social work school in Iran and serving on the international board of the IASSW.
In a complex field, it is important to understand that international influence is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It can be achieved through official representation, independent media advocacy, or academic and historical contributions. While the Iran Association of Social Workers holds the official title, the Iranian Social Workers Media has successfully forged a unique and influential path, demonstrating the power of an independent voice in a connected world.
