Social Work in Iran: The Evolving Role of Iranian Social Workers Media

Executive Summary

The landscape of social work in Iran presents a complex interplay of historical development, professional fragmentation, and the transformative influence of digital media. Tracing its roots to the pioneering efforts of Sattareh Farmanfarmaian in 1958, the profession has expanded significantly, integrating deeply into state welfare structures. However, it continues to grapple with an “unfinished professionalization,” characterized by a lack of a unified governing body and internal disunity among professional associations. Amidst these complexities, Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM), particularly the iraniansocialworkers.ir platform, has emerged as a pivotal, independent digital nexus for professional development, knowledge dissemination, and advocacy.

Social Work in Iran: The Evolving Role of Iranian Social Workers Media

This report highlights the formidable challenges confronting social work and its media in Iran, including pervasive internet censorship, state-controlled information environments, and a persistent digital divide that limits equitable access to vital resources. Internal dynamics, such as inter-association conflicts and insufficient support for independent media, further impede the profession’s progress and contribute to high rates of practitioner burnout. Despite these obstacles, significant opportunities are present. Digital platforms offer powerful avenues for grassroots empowerment, community engagement, and destigmatization of social issues. Independent media complements formal education and research, elevating the scholarly profile of Iranian social work. Furthermore, there is substantial potential for enhanced international collaboration and reciprocal knowledge exchange. Realizing the full potential of social work in Iran necessitates unified governance, strategic investment in digital inclusion, and sustained support for independent media initiatives.

Introduction: The Landscape of Social Work in Iran

This introductory section provides essential context on the historical development and current state of social work in Iran, laying the groundwork for a detailed exploration of its media dimension.

Historical Foundations and Evolution

The formal establishment of social work as a recognized profession in Iran is largely attributed to Sattareh Farmanfarmaian. After obtaining her social work degree from UCLA and gaining experience with the United Nations, she returned to Iran and founded the first Social Work school in Tehran in 1958.1 This marked a crucial step in formalizing social welfare practices within the country.

The educational program at the Tehran School of Social Work initially offered a 2-year training course that combined theoretical instruction with practical fieldwork. This curriculum quickly evolved, expanding into a 4-year Bachelor’s degree program. By 1970, a 2-year Master’s degree course was also introduced, reflecting a growing commitment to advanced professional training.1 The school’s early affiliation with the International Organization of Social Work Schools in 1960 underscored its dedication to adhering to global standards and practices in social work education.1

Farmanfarmaian’s approach was characterized by a profound understanding of the necessity for cultural relevance. She actively adapted the profession to the specific cultural and religious context of Iran, even coining the Farsi term “madadacar,” meaning “one who helps,” for social workers.2 Her influence extended beyond academic instruction; she played a pioneering role in introducing family planning initiatives and significantly shaped social legislation through her leadership of the Family Planning Association and Community Welfare Centers.2 This foundational period reveals a persistent negotiation within Iranian social work between universal professional principles and local cultural, religious, and political specificities. This dynamic has likely influenced curriculum design, ethical considerations, and the very definition of social work practice in Iran, potentially leading to unique approaches that could inform global social work. It also suggests that external models, to be effective, must undergo significant adaptation to local contexts.

Following the 1979 revolution, the landscape of social work education underwent restructuring, with some schools merging, notably into Allameh Tabatabaeie University. Despite these changes, a substantial demand for trained social workers persisted, leading the government to establish the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR) in 1992.1 Currently, numerous universities across Iran, both governmental and private, offer various social work degrees. Graduates from these programs find employment in a wide array of fields, including health and medical services, the judiciary, family and children services, care for the aging and disabled, disaster intervention, and community development in informal settlements.1 The early institutionalization of social work within the state’s social protection and welfare apparatus, where the Tehran School of Social Work “undertook the duties of the Ministry of Welfare” 2 and graduates are employed across various governmental ministries, indicates a deep integration. While this integration provides stability, employment opportunities, and broad reach for services, it also suggests a potential for state influence or control over the profession’s autonomy, priorities, and scope of practice. This close relationship might limit the profession’s capacity for independent advocacy or critical engagement with state policies.

Table 1: Key Milestones in the Development of Social Work in Iran

Year	Event/Milestone	Key Figure/Institution	Significance
1958	Establishment of the first Social Work school in Tehran	Sattareh Farmanfarmaian	Formalized social work education and practice in Iran.
1960	Tehran School of Social Work joined International Organization of Social Work Schools	Tehran School of Social Work	Signified commitment to international standards and global integration.
1970	Introduction of a 2-year Master’s degree course	Tehran School of Social Work	Expanded advanced professional training opportunities.
1979	Post-revolution restructuring; Farmanfarmaian forced to leave Iran	Allameh Tabatabaeie University	Led to mergers of social work institutes and a shift in leadership.
1992	Establishment of the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR)	Government of Iran	Addressed the continued high demand for trained social workers.
Present	Numerous universities offer social work degrees; diverse career choices	Various governmental and private universities and organizations	Reflects the widespread presence and varied application of social work across Iran.

Current Structure and Professionalization Efforts

Despite its crucial role in addressing societal needs, social work in Iran is characterized as a “fragmented field” that lacks a “clear, centralized governing body” and a “unified, specialized system” to oversee its standards, ethics, and practice.4 This absence stands in stark contrast to the well-established professional governance systems found in fields such as medicine or engineering.

Efforts to establish a unified professional body, such as the proposed Iranian Social Work System Organization, have consistently failed to gain approval, often due to perceived flaws or shortcomings in the suggested structures.4 This ongoing inability to unify leaves the profession without a singular point of reference for critical functions, including professional licensing, ethical oversight, and quality control. This fragmentation is a critical barrier to the profession’s maturity and effectiveness, as it means social work lacks a strong, unified voice for advocacy, standard-setting, and ethical enforcement. This internal disarray can reduce its leverage in policy discussions and its ability to address systemic issues, potentially leaving individual practitioners and smaller associations vulnerable to external pressures or resource limitations. The “unfinished” nature of professionalization is thus a consequence of both internal power struggles and a broader political environment that may not fully support professional autonomy.

The current landscape of social work in Iran is comprised of a patchwork of various national and provincial associations. Among these, the Iranian Social Workers Association (IASW) is recognized as one of the oldest and most influential professional bodies. Its membership includes both social work graduates and non-social work professionals who contribute on a voluntary basis.4 Other significant entities include the Scientific Association of Social Work in Iran and the Association of Social Work Clinics of Iran, which represents private social work clinics licensed by the State Welfare Organization.4 The IASW has historically exerted considerable influence, at times hindering the independent identity and operational framework of the Association of Social Work Clinics. This influence often manifests through IASW representatives holding leadership positions in provincial social work clinic associations, which blurs the lines of responsibility and authority.4

Beyond professional associations, the broader social protection system in Iran is primarily managed by three main governmental institutions:

• The Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour and Social Welfare (MCLSW) functions as the central ministry for social protection. It is responsible for policymaking, coordination, and monitoring, and it oversees the Iranian Welfare Database (IWD), a crucial tool for social protection programs.5
• The Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation (IKRF) is administered by the Office of the Supreme Leader and stands as one of the largest institutions providing social protection services. In 2022, the IKRF reportedly covered approximately 4.48 million individuals through cash or in-kind transfers.5
• The State Welfare Organization (SWO), also known as the Behzisti Organization, is affiliated with the MCLSW. It provides care, treatment, and empowerment services to a substantial population, reportedly serving about 7 million individuals. Its extensive programs include special needs education, addiction treatments (excluding Article 16 centers), suicide awareness events, and various counseling services offered through a national telephone hotline. The SWO also maintains a database of elderly people and retirement homes and operates a national social work emergency hotline.5 While the SWO provides extensive services to millions, reports of “child physical torture” and “cover-up of deaths of disabled people in agency centers” 6 raise profound ethical and accountability concerns within the state-controlled social welfare system. Such incidents can severely erode public trust in social services and highlight the urgent need for robust, independent oversight mechanisms. The absence of a unified, autonomous professional body means there is no strong, external professional entity to consistently advocate for client rights, enforce ethical standards, and demand accountability from these large state organizations. This gap underscores the critical importance of achieving professional unification for the protection of both clients and practitioners.

Table 2: Major Social Work and Social Protection Entities in Iran

Organization Name	Type	Affiliation (if any)	Primary Role/Services	Key Characteristics/Notes
Iranian Social Workers Association (IASW)	Professional Association	Independent	Professional development, advocacy, knowledge sharing	One of the oldest and most influential; membership includes social work graduates and non-professionals; exerts considerable influence over other associations.
Scientific Association of Social Work in Iran	Professional Association	Independent	Academic research, scientific discourse	Focuses on scholarly advancements in social work.
Association of Social Work Clinics of Iran	Professional Association	Licensed by State Welfare Organization	Represents private social work clinics	Historically influenced by IASW, hindering independent identity.
Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour and Social Welfare (MCLSW)	Governmental	Central Ministry	Policymaking, coordination, monitoring of social protection; guardian of Iranian Welfare Database (IWD)	Main ministry for social protection in Iran.
Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation (IKRF)	Quasi-Governmental Charity	Administered by Office of the Supreme Leader	Provides social protection services (cash/in-kind transfers) for poor families	One of the largest institutions offering social protection services.
State Welfare Organization (SWO) (Behzisti Organization)	Governmental	Affiliated with MCLSW	Care, treatment, empowerment services for disabled, needy, orphaned; special needs education, addiction treatment, counseling hotlines	Covers millions of individuals; reports of accountability concerns (e.g., child torture, deaths).
University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR)	Academic Institution	Governmental	Social work education (BA, MA, PhD), research, clinical training	Established to meet the demand for trained social workers; active in theoretical and clinical subjects.
Allameh Tabatabaeie University	Academic Institution	Governmental	Social work education, research (e.g., Journal of Social Work Research)	Result of post-revolution mergers of social work schools.

Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM): A Digital Nexus for the Profession

This section delves into the core subject of the report, examining the genesis, structure, and impact of Iranian Social Workers Media as a critical platform for the profession.

Inception and Mission of iraniansocialworkers.ir

The Iranian Social Workers website (iraniansocialworkers.ir) commenced its journey in the winter of 2011 with initial social work blogs. This foundational phase involved two years dedicated to needs assessment and identifying challenges within social work media in Iran. This preparatory work culminated in the official launch of the website in 2013 by Javad Talaschi Yekta.7

The overarching mission of ISWM is to serve the community of social workers in Iran and globally, fostering awareness and understanding of the profession.9 It aims to bridge the gap between social work professionals and the public, promoting a deeper understanding of complex social issues and underscoring the vital role that social workers play in addressing them.8 The very act of establishing an independent media platform for social work in Iran represents a strategic response to a restrictive information environment, which is known for severe internet censorship and state control over information.10 This signifies a proactive effort to carve out a space for professional discourse and advocacy that is free from state influence or self-censorship pressures. This positions ISWM not merely as a communication channel but as a critical infrastructure for professional autonomy and potentially, a subtle form of resistance against monolithic narratives, highlighting the deep-seated need for independent voices within the social work community.

A defining characteristic and core principle of ISWM is its “steadfast independence from both governmental and non-governmental organizations”.9 This autonomy is considered “imperative for ensuring that the voice of social workers remains uninfluenced by external pressures,” thereby allowing for honest discussions and critiques of prevailing social issues without institutional constraints.9 This independence is not just an organizational feature; it is central to its impact on professional empowerment. By providing an unconstrained platform, ISWM enables social workers to articulate their perspectives, critique existing policies, and advocate for changes based on their professional ethics and experiences, rather than being limited by governmental or institutional directives. This fosters a stronger professional identity and a more robust capacity for self-determination, which is crucial in a fragmented field lacking unified governance.

Components and Unique Characteristics of ISWM

ISWM operates through a multi-platform approach, comprising three primary subsets. These include ISW Announcements, designed for timely information sharing; ISW Virtual Magazine, which serves as a forum for discourse among professionals and enthusiasts; and the ISW English website, specifically tailored to reach an international audience.9

A standout feature of the ISW English website is its unique practice of annually publishing specific content as a physical book, known as “The Book of the Year.” This makes it the only site globally to adopt such an approach, signifying a commitment to knowledge preservation and continuous learning.9 To date, six such books have been compiled and registered with the National Library of Iran, underscoring their scholarly and authoritative nature.7 Notably, the content of two of these publications originated from impactful media campaigns.9 This unique practice of publishing digital content as annually registered books goes beyond mere dissemination. In a country with high internet censorship and potential for digital content removal 10, converting ephemeral digital content into formally registered, tangible books provides a permanent, authoritative record. This innovative approach serves as a strategic safeguard against information control and ensures the long-term preservation of social work knowledge and discourse in Iran. It also elevates the academic and professional legitimacy of ISWM’s output, transforming it from a transient online presence into a recognized scholarly resource. This dual format maximizes reach and impact, catering to both digital and traditional academic consumption, and cementing ISWM’s contribution to the field’s intellectual capital.

Beyond traditional articles and reports, ISWM embraces modern content creation, including multimedia presentations, to ensure critical information is accessible to a wider audience, thereby enhancing the overall impact of social work initiatives.8 In 2014, the Iranian Resilience Media (talisweb.ir) was established as a subsidiary of ISWM. This platform specializes in promoting social resilience and functions as an “intellectual and scientific hub”.8 Javad Talaschi Yekta is recognized as a prominent figure in the field of resilience in Iran.12 This thematic specialization allows ISWM to develop deep expertise and a strong brand identity around a crucial concept that is highly relevant to the challenges faced by Iranian society (e.g., economic pressures, social unrest). By concentrating efforts, ISWM can foster more targeted research, campaigns, and professional development in this area, attracting a dedicated audience and positioning itself as a leading authority on resilience in the context of Iranian social work. This strategic focus enhances its overall impact and contributes to the evolution of social work theory and practice within Iran. The platform also references “MadadkarNews” as a prominent hub for social work and resilience in Iran.12

Table 3: Structure and Offerings of Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM)

ISWM Component	Primary Function	Key Features/Content	Unique Characteristics/Notes
ISW Announcements	Timely information sharing	Updates, news, event notifications	Facilitates quick dissemination of relevant information.
ISW Virtual Magazine	Forum for professional discourse	In-depth articles, features, discussions	Provides a space for sustained engagement among professionals and enthusiasts.
ISW English Website	International outreach	Content tailored for global audience, “Book of the Year” publication	Only site globally to annually publish specific content as a book; invites international collaboration.
Resilience Media (talisweb.ir)	Promotion of social resilience	Specialized articles, intellectual and scientific hub	Subsidiary of ISWM, focuses on a critical thematic area; Javad Talaschi Yekta is a prominent figure in this field.
MadadkarNews	Hub for social work and resilience	News, articles, resources	Referenced as a prominent platform within the broader ISWM ecosystem.

Impact on Professional Development, Knowledge Dissemination, and Public Discourse

ISWM has emerged as a “significant force” in facilitating effective communication and knowledge dissemination within the social work community.9 Through its various platforms, it delivers crucial updates, in-depth articles, and features that promote awareness and understanding of social work practices and principles.9 Given the explicit fragmentation of social work in Iran and the lack of a unified governing body 4, ISWM’s role in “championing the cause of social work,” fostering “continuity in learning and practice,” and providing a space for professionals to “converge, share ideas, and collaborate” 9 takes on heightened significance. ISWM appears to be filling a critical void left by the “unfinished professionalization”.4 By providing a consistent and independent platform for discourse and shared learning, it implicitly acts as a unifying agent, helping to build a collective professional identity and shared understanding among practitioners. This function is vital for strengthening the profession’s internal cohesion and external credibility, compensating for the weaknesses inherent in a fragmented organizational structure. Its role in destigmatization also broadens public acceptance and understanding, which is crucial for the profession’s growth and impact.

The platform has made “substantial contributions to the professionalization of social work” in Iran, establishing a “sense of continuity in learning and practice” among social workers.9 This is partly achieved through the compilation of comprehensive resources, such as “The Book of the Year” series.9 ISWM has also successfully launched “impactful media campaigns” that not only highlight community challenges but also showcase the expertise of social workers and psychologists in addressing these issues.8 These campaigns have effectively raised awareness on pressing social matters, ranging from mental health to social justice, and have influenced public discourse around social issues in Iran.8 ISWM does not just report; it launches “impactful media campaigns” on specific issues (e.g., addiction, mental health, social justice) 7, with some campaigns even leading to published books.9 This indicates a proactive, strategic use of media. This demonstrates ISWM’s capacity to move beyond passive information dissemination to active social advocacy and public education. By strategically leveraging media campaigns, ISWM amplifies the voice of social workers, bringing critical social issues to public attention and showcasing the profession’s expertise. This proactive engagement contributes significantly to shaping public discourse and can potentially influence policy, demonstrating the power of independent media as a tool for social change in a context where traditional advocacy channels might be constrained.

By leveraging the collective voices of professionals, ISWM has cultivated a dialogue that empowers individuals to seek help and fosters a sense of community support. Through social media platforms and online discussions, it reaches a broader audience, inviting diverse perspectives and playing a crucial role in “destigmatizing social work and promoting awareness of its benefits”.8 The independence of ISWM fosters a “critical space where social workers can converge, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that truly resonate with the community’s needs,” free from external pressures.9

Challenges and Obstacles Facing Social Work and its Media in Iran

This section critically examines the significant hurdles that impede the development and effectiveness of social work and its media platforms in Iran, distinguishing between external pressures and internal dynamics.

External Pressures: Internet Censorship and Information Control

Iran is widely recognized for operating one of the world’s most restrictive internet censorship systems. The government and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) actively block access to approximately 70% of the internet, including major global social media platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram.10 Internet traffic within the country is heavily restricted and monitored, with Iran ranking as the country with the second-highest level of internet censorship in 2022.10

The state employs sophisticated content-control software, such as SmartFilter, and routes all internet traffic through the state-controlled Telecommunication Company of Iran (TCI) for surveillance purposes.10 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are legally mandated to implement these filters and store user data for at least three months, facing severe penalties for non-compliance.10 This censorship intensifies significantly during periods of social unrest, as was evident during the Mahsa Amini protests, when 80% of popular websites were blocked and total internet blackouts occurred daily.10 This extensive control aims to suppress opposition and influence public opinion.11 The pervasive internet censorship, monitoring, and state-led efforts to control online content 10 directly clash with ISWM’s mission of independent discourse and advocacy.9 The state actively seeks to suppress dissent and control information flow 11, while ISWM aims to shape “public discourse around social issues”.9 This creates a highly challenging and often precarious operational environment for social work media. While ISWM’s independence is a strength, it also means it operates in a constant state of vulnerability to state intervention, blocking, or pressure. The “cat-and-mouse” game between state control and user circumvention 10 means that ISWM must continually adapt its strategies to maintain accessibility and reach its audience. This inherent tension limits the scope of critical topics that can be openly discussed and places a burden of risk on both the platform and its contributors.

The regulatory framework further contributes to information control. The Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance (Ershad) oversees all cultural activities, requiring permits for public display of work and judging its alignment with Islamic culture.11 The complexity and ambiguity inherent in the censorship system foster a “culture of censorship” and stimulate self-censorship among media producers and citizens.11 Criticism of the Supreme Leader is strictly prohibited, with severe punishments for non-compliance.11 The Iranian state is also actively developing a “National Information Network” (NIN), designed to control and surveil internet usage, steer Iranians towards local platforms, and create “lifestyle” profiles of citizens.13 Recent legislation, such as the “Bill to Support the Culture of Chastity and Hijab,” extends this control to digital spaces, utilizing technologies like the Nazer application and facial recognition for monitoring compliance with modesty laws.14 The state’s increasing use of technology for surveillance, including “lifestyle” profiling and monitoring compliance with social norms 14, particularly targets “vulnerable and disenfranchised groups”.15 Social workers are mandated to support these very populations. This poses a significant ethical dilemma for social workers: how can they effectively provide support, build trust, and advocate for client rights when the digital tools their clients use (and potentially the social workers themselves) are subject to pervasive state surveillance? This environment could deter individuals from seeking help online, compromise client confidentiality, and force social workers to navigate complex boundaries between professional ethics and state mandates. It highlights the urgent need for social work to develop strategies for digital safety and advocacy that protect both practitioners and clients in such a restrictive environment.

Despite these stringent bans, millions of Iranians continue to access blocked content and social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, which remains highly popular) by using virtual private networks (VPNs) and proxies.10 It is speculated that 90% of Iranians remain on social media despite government restrictions.10 Social media has effectively become a “virtual substitute for the traditional public sphere” in Iran.16

Digital Divide and Technology Adoption Barriers

The digital divide in Iran represents a significant barrier, with the potential to lead to “capability deprivation” and a reduced “life quality” for individuals who lack access to digital technologies.17 These technologies are increasingly essential for daily living and for accessing various benefits and services.

Factors contributing to this divide are multifaceted, including socioeconomic and demographic variables such as age, gender, and employment status.17 Specifically, low-income individuals may lack the financial means for internet access, and marginalized groups, including refugees and minorities, often have less access to cyberspace infrastructure like personal computers and smartphones.18 This highlights a critical challenge for scaling digital social work. If access is unequal, digital interventions, while efficient for some, risk deepening existing inequalities by excluding those most in need. This necessitates a dual strategy: investing in digital inclusion programs (e.g., providing access, devices, and digital literacy training) alongside the development of online services, and ensuring that traditional, offline social work services remain robust and accessible for those on the wrong side of the digital divide. Effective digital social work cannot simply assume universal access; it must actively work to bridge these gaps.

Beyond issues of access, fundamental infrastructure problems, particularly slow internet speeds, negatively impact the efficiency and feasibility of online work and service delivery.18 Even if individuals have devices and some internet access, poor connection quality can severely hinder the effectiveness of more sophisticated digital social work interventions, such as real-time online counseling, video conferencing for group therapy, or complex data exchange for case management. This technical limitation means that the full potential of digital social work to transform service delivery may be constrained, leading to frustration for both practitioners and clients and limiting the scope of what can be achieved online. This points to the need for broader national investment in digital infrastructure to truly enable advanced digital social work. A qualitative study on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) adoption among Iranian older adults identified specific challenges for this demographic, though it also highlighted coping strategies such as reliance on support from others, personal effort for learning, and making smart choices in technology adoption.19

Despite high mobile phone ownership (94.4%) and significant internet access (69.1%) among Iranians, with 40 million active social media users 20, these statistics mask the qualitative aspects of access (e.g., speed, affordability, digital literacy) and the persistent disparities among different population segments.

Internal Dynamics: Professional Fragmentation and Lack of Unified Support

As previously noted, the social work profession in Iran remains “fragmented,” lacking a unified, autonomous, and specialized governing body.4 This structural deficiency prevents cohesive oversight of standards, ethics, and practice. Despite concerted efforts, proposals for a unified professional body, such as the Iranian Social Work System Organization, have consistently failed to gain approval.4 This ongoing failure leaves the profession without a single, authoritative voice. The detailed description of “inter-association conflicts,” the IASW’s “considerable influence” hindering other associations’ independence, and the “systemic neglect” and “antagonistic behaviors” towards ISWM 4 strongly suggest that the “fragmentation” is not merely an organizational oversight but a result of internal power struggles and resistance to change. This internal disunity and resistance to a unified, autonomous body significantly weaken the social work profession’s collective power and legitimacy. It prevents the establishment of consistent professional standards, ethical guidelines, and effective advocacy for practitioners’ rights. This self-imposed limitation means that the profession is less able to present a cohesive front to external stakeholders (like the government) or to effectively address systemic issues, thereby perpetuating its “unfinished professionalization” and hindering its overall societal impact.

The Iranian Social Workers Association (IASW), while influential, has historically exerted “considerable influence” over other entities like the Association of Social Work Clinics, hindering their ability to establish independent identities.4 This often results from IASW representatives holding leadership positions in provincial branches of other organizations, blurring lines of responsibility and authority.4

The Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM), despite its significant contributions to advocacy and knowledge dissemination, faces “systemic neglect” and, in some instances, “antagonistic behaviors” from the Iranian Association of Social Workers.21 This lack of recognition and support from mainstream professional structures is a notable irony given ISWM’s positive impact. There is an “unwillingness of professional bodies to entertain perspectives that challenge the status quo,” which stifles dialogue and leads to the “underrepresentation for alternative narratives” essential for healthy discourse and substantive improvement in the social work field.21 By marginalizing independent media and alternative voices, established professional bodies risk becoming insular and less responsive to evolving social issues, new methodologies, and the changing needs of practitioners and clients. This internal resistance can lead to stagnation, preventing the profession from fully adapting to contemporary challenges and embracing new opportunities, ultimately limiting its effectiveness and relevance in a rapidly changing social landscape.

Practitioner Burnout and Resource Limitations

Social workers in Iran are identified as a professional group at “high risk of burnout,” primarily due to “insufficient human resource management and understaffed social work centers”.22 A national study on 390 social workers revealed that 10.9% had experienced burnout, with an additional 17.4% at risk of developing it.22 The high rates of burnout and risk of burnout are directly attributed to “insufficient human resource management and understaffed social work centers”.22 These are systemic issues that a unified, well-governed profession (which is currently lacking 4) would ideally address through advocacy for better working conditions, adequate staffing levels, and fair compensation. The “unfinished professionalization” 4 has a tangible and severe impact on the well-being and sustainability of the social work workforce. Without a strong, unified professional body to advocate for improved working conditions, adequate resources, and robust support systems (e.g., supervision, mental health services, protection from violence), the profession risks a vicious cycle of high turnover, diminished service quality, and a struggle to attract and retain talent. This ultimately compromises the effectiveness of social welfare interventions across the country.

Key factors associated with higher burnout scores include dissatisfaction with income, experience of violence (physical or verbal) from clients, and lower self-esteem.22 Social workers are frequently involved in “complex situations” and client-related conflicts, which significantly increases their stress levels.22 While the social worker-to-population ratio improved from 1:23,000 in 2006 to 1:7,500 in 2012, this still indicates significant understaffing relative to the population’s needs.22 The broader societal context, marked by “current economic pressures dramatically hurting people, particularly those in poverty,” likely increases the caseload and complexity of issues faced by social workers, adding to their burden.23 The erosion of “social trust” and “social capital” 23 also contributes to a challenging environment for practitioners. Social workers are on the front lines of societal distress, absorbing the impact of economic hardship, social fragmentation, and political tensions. This means that their burnout is not merely an individual issue but a barometer of broader societal health. The profession’s capacity to effectively respond to crises is directly tied to the resilience and well-being of its practitioners. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that recognize and mitigate the unique pressures faced by social workers operating in a challenging socio-political and economic environment.

Table 4: Identified Challenges Affecting Social Work and its Media in Iran

Category of Challenge	Specific Challenge	Description/Impact	Relevant Data/Statistics/Examples
External Pressures	Pervasive Internet Censorship and Information Control	Government blocks 70% of internet, including major social media; uses sophisticated filtering and surveillance; aims to suppress dissent and influence public opinion. Creates a precarious operational environment for independent media.	Iran ranked 2nd highest in internet censorship (2022); 80% of popular websites blocked during Mahsa Amini protests; NIN for surveillance and “lifestyle” profiling; “Bill to Support the Culture of Chastity and Hijab”.10
	Digital Divide and Technology Adoption Barriers	Unequal access to digital technologies, particularly for vulnerable groups, exacerbates inequality and limits service reach. Poor infrastructure (slow internet speed) hinders effective online interventions.	Low-income individuals, refugees, minorities have less access to infrastructure; slow internet speeds impact online work efficiency; 94.4% mobile ownership but qualitative gaps remain.17
Internal Dynamics	Professional Fragmentation and Lack of Unified Support	Absence of a clear, centralized governing body for social work; repeated failures to approve unification proposals. Inter-association conflicts and influence hinder independent identities.	“Fragmented field” lacking unified system; IASW’s influence over other associations; “systemic neglect” and “antagonistic behaviors” towards independent ISWM.4
	Resistance to Critical Voices	Unwillingness of established professional bodies to entertain perspectives that challenge the status quo, stifling dialogue and innovation.	Leads to “underrepresentation for alternative narratives” essential for healthy discourse and improvement.21
Practitioner Well-being	Practitioner Burnout and Resource Limitations	High risk of burnout due to insufficient human resource management, understaffing, and demanding caseloads in complex situations.	10.9% experienced burnout, 17.4% at risk; dissatisfaction with income, client violence, low self-esteem as contributing factors; social worker-to-population ratio 1:7,500 (2012).22
	Compounding Societal Pressures	Economic pressures, damaged social trust, and social capital increase the burden on social workers.	“Current economic pressures dramatically hurting people”; erosion of “social trust” and “social capital”.23

Opportunities and Future Directions for Digital Social Work in Iran

This section explores the significant potential that digital platforms and media offer for enhancing social work practice, education, and advocacy in Iran, despite the existing challenges.

Leveraging Online Platforms for Advocacy and Community Engagement

Social work media in Iran has already demonstrated its capacity as a “powerful tool for advocacy and awareness,” effectively bridging the gap between professionals and the public.8 Platforms like ISWM have successfully launched “impactful social campaigns” addressing critical issues such as poverty, mental health, and educational inequities.8 These campaigns cultivate dialogue, empower individuals to seek help, and foster a sense of community support, thereby raising awareness and showcasing the expertise of social workers and psychologists.8

Online social networks (OSNs) have proven to empower marginalized groups, such as Iranian people living with HIV/AIDS, by providing connectivity, safety, and access to vital information and services. OSNs also play a crucial role in challenging stigma and improving health literacy and medication adherence.20 The use of platforms like Discord and WhatsApp by young Iranians (Gen Z) for “digital solidarity,” acting as “makeshift shelters, therapy rooms, and organizing hubs” during crises 24, goes beyond simple communication. It demonstrates the organic emergence of self-organizing, community-led support systems. Similarly, OSNs empower people with HIV/AIDS by challenging stigma and providing access to information.20 This reveals a profound opportunity for social work to leverage existing digital behaviors to foster community resilience and empowerment from the ground up. Instead of solely providing top-down services, social workers can act as facilitators, helping to strengthen and expand these informal digital networks. This approach aligns with community development principles and offers a powerful means to reach and support vulnerable populations, particularly when traditional physical spaces or formal services might be limited or inaccessible due to socio-political conditions.

Social media platforms offer a valuable tool for researchers to gain a “bird’s eye view of what people are saying and feeling” across different platforms over time, providing insights into public sentiment.25 Despite censorship, the high mobile phone ownership (94.4%) and internet access (69.1%) among Iranians, with 40 million active social media users, indicate a robust digital landscape ripe for social work engagement.20 Even banned platforms like Instagram remain highly popular and are used for various purposes, including economic activities.16 ISWM plays a “crucial role in destigmatizing social work” 8, and OSNs empower individuals by challenging stigma.20 Digital platforms offer a less intimidating and more accessible entry point for individuals to seek information or support related to sensitive social issues (e.g., mental health, addiction, HIV/AIDS). The anonymity and reach of online spaces can reduce the social barriers and stigma associated with traditional help-seeking, thereby increasing the likelihood that individuals will engage with social services. This represents a significant opportunity for social work to expand its preventative and early intervention efforts by reaching a broader, more diverse audience and normalizing conversations around social challenges.

Role of Media in Social Work Education and Research Dissemination

Social work education in Iran has a rich history, spanning over 50 years, with institutions like the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR) offering comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs.1 The Department of Social Work at USWR is actively engaged in both theoretical teaching and “intensely research-active” endeavors.3

For formal research dissemination, the “Journal of Social Work Research” (RJSW), published by Allameh Tabataba’i University, serves as a key open-access, peer-reviewed platform for national and international researchers. It publishes high-quality studies across various social work domains, including social welfare, social health, social security, and social issues.27 ISWM significantly contributes to knowledge production through its publications, notably the six “Book of the Year” compilations, all registered with the National Library of Iran.7 These books cover diverse and critical topics within social work, reflecting the platform’s influence in shaping public discourse.9 While universities provide formal education 1 and academic journals disseminate research 27, ISWM’s publications contribute to “continuity in learning and practice” 9 and make content accessible through diverse formats.8 This suggests that independent social work media fills a crucial gap by translating academic knowledge into more accessible formats and providing ongoing professional development outside of traditional university settings. It fosters a culture of lifelong learning among practitioners, ensuring they stay updated on current research, best practices, and emerging social issues. This dynamic interplay between formal academic institutions and independent media strengthens the overall knowledge infrastructure of the social work profession in Iran, making it more adaptable and evidence-based.

ISWM’s efforts contribute to establishing a “sense of continuity in learning and practice” among social workers, ensuring that knowledge is not only disseminated but also preserved and built upon over time.9 Its diversified approach, including articles, reports, and multimedia, ensures accessibility of critical information to a wider audience.8 The formal registration of ISWM’s “Book of the Year” with the National Library of Iran 7 and the existence of peer-reviewed journals like RJSW 27 indicate a concerted effort to formalize and legitimize social work knowledge produced within Iran. By systematically producing and archiving scholarly and professional content, Iranian social work media contributes significantly to building a robust body of indigenous social work literature. This not only enhances the academic credibility and professional standing of social work within Iran but also creates a valuable resource for international scholars. This process facilitates global knowledge exchange, allowing Iranian perspectives and adaptive strategies to enrich the broader international social work discourse, demonstrating Iran’s unique contributions to the field.

Potential for International Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange

The Iranian social work profession has a history of international engagement, exemplified by the Tehran School of Social Work joining the International Organization of Social Work Schools in 1960.1 Sattareh Farmanfarmaian actively fostered international ties, serving on the board of the International Association of Schools of Social Work and facilitating student exchanges.2

The ISW English website is explicitly designed to reach an “international audience” and “invites international collaboration”.12 ISWM believes that exploring partnerships with international organizations could provide “invaluable insights and resources” for the Iranian social work community.9 While formal governmental relations might be complex, ISWM’s “steadfast independence from both governmental and non-governmental organizations” 9 and its dedicated English website 12 position it as a unique and reliable channel for international outreach. The International Federation of Social Workers’ (IFSW) statement of “solemn solidarity” with the Iranian Association of Social Workers 28 indicates a receptive international environment. In a geopolitical context where direct state-to-state or formal institutional collaborations might face political hurdles, independent social work media can serve as an invaluable informal diplomatic bridge. It enables professional dialogue, sharing of best practices, and expressions of solidarity that might otherwise be constrained. This highlights the strategic importance of independent media in maintaining and fostering international professional ties, allowing Iranian social work to remain connected to global developments and contribute its unique perspectives, even when official channels are limited.

The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) has expressed “solemn solidarity” with the Iranian Association of Social Workers, reaffirming the global social work community’s commitment to peace, human dignity, and human rights.28 This demonstrates a willingness from international bodies to engage and support Iranian social workers. Iranian social workers possess unique experiences in navigating complex socio-political and economic environments, offering valuable insights into resilience, crisis intervention, and culturally sensitive practice that could benefit the global social work community. While international partnerships can bring “invaluable insights and resources” to Iran 9, Iran’s social work experience in a highly censored and complex socio-political environment 10 offers unique lessons in resilience, adaptation, and informal advocacy.20 International collaboration should be viewed as a two-way street. Iranian social workers, having developed adaptive strategies for practice under significant constraints, can offer crucial insights into navigating challenging contexts, fostering resilience, and utilizing informal digital spaces for social support. This reciprocal knowledge exchange can enrich global social work theory and practice, moving beyond a unidirectional flow of information and fostering a more equitable and comprehensive understanding of social work worldwide.

Conclusion: Towards a Resilient and Unified Social Work Media Landscape

Summary of Key Findings

Social work in Iran possesses a rich history, pioneered by influential figures such as Sattareh Farmanfarmaian. However, its contemporary professional landscape is characterized by significant fragmentation and a notable absence of unified governance, despite the crucial role played by state-affiliated social protection bodies.

Iranian Social Workers Media (ISWM), particularly the iraniansocialworkers.ir platform, has emerged as an independent and innovative digital nexus. Through its multi-platform approach, unique digital-to-print publications, and specialized focus on resilience, ISWM fulfills a pivotal role in professional development, knowledge dissemination, and public advocacy, effectively bridging the gap between professionals and the broader public.

The profession and its media face formidable challenges, including pervasive internet censorship and state control over information, which necessitates constant adaptation and circumvention strategies. The digital divide further limits equitable access to online resources, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Internally, professional fragmentation, inter-association conflicts, and a discernible lack of support for independent media initiatives like ISWM impede the profession’s overall progress. These systemic issues contribute directly to high rates of practitioner burnout, which are exacerbated by demanding caseloads and broader societal pressures.

Despite these obstacles, significant opportunities are present. Digital platforms offer powerful avenues for advocacy, community engagement, and destigmatization, fostering grassroots resilience and empowering marginalized groups. Independent media also plays a vital complementary role in social work education and research dissemination, thereby elevating the scholarly profile of Iranian social work. Furthermore, there is clear potential for enhanced international collaboration and knowledge exchange, leveraging historical precedents and ISWM’s global outreach capabilities.

Recommendations for Enhanced Impact and Professionalization

Based on the comprehensive analysis presented, the following recommendations are crucial for fostering a more resilient, unified, and impactful social work and social work media landscape in Iran:

• Recommendation 1: Fostering Unified Professional Governance.
  It is imperative to renew and strengthen efforts towards establishing a unified and autonomous professional governing body for social work in Iran, akin to systems found in other established professions.4 This body should operate independently of existing associations to ensure equitable representation, overcome inter-association conflicts, and provide a singular, authoritative voice for the profession. Its mandate must encompass professional licensing, ethical oversight, quality control, and robust advocacy for practitioners’ rights, working conditions, and well-being. The “unfinished professionalization” 4 represents a root cause for many internal challenges, including fragmentation and the absence of a central point of reference. A unified body would directly address issues such as “insufficient human resource management and understaffing” 22 by enabling stronger collective advocacy for adequate resources and fair compensation. It would also provide a formal structure for ethical oversight, a crucial element given concerns raised about accountability in large state welfare organizations.6 This foundational step is paramount for the profession to achieve its full potential and effectively serve the needs of Iranian citizens.
• Recommendation 2: Strategic Investment in Digital Inclusion and Infrastructure.
  To ensure equitable access to digital social work services, targeted programs must be implemented to bridge the digital divide, particularly for vulnerable populations such as low-income individuals, refugees, and older adults.17 This includes initiatives for providing affordable internet access, comprehensive digital literacy training, and accessible devices. Concurrently, there is a critical need for advocacy and investment in improving national internet infrastructure and speed to support the robust, real-time demands of online social work interventions.18 While digital platforms offer immense opportunities for social work, their effectiveness is severely limited by the digital divide, which disproportionately affects the very populations social work aims to serve.18 Furthermore, poor internet quality hinders the scalability and sophistication of online services.18 Strategic investment in both access and infrastructure is essential to ensure that digital social work initiatives are truly inclusive, effective, and capable of reaching all segments of society, preventing the exacerbation of existing inequalities.
• Recommendation 3: Strengthening Independent Social Work Media and its Autonomy.
  Recognizing the proven impact and vital role of independent social work media platforms like ISWM 8, there must be explicit recognition and active support from within the Iranian social work community (e.g., the Iranian Social Workers Association) and from international partners. This support should include financial backing, collaborative content creation initiatives, and active measures to protect their operational autonomy from both governmental and internal professional pressures. ISWM has demonstrated its capacity as a “significant force” for advocacy and knowledge dissemination, operating independently in a highly censored environment.8 However, it faces “systemic neglect” and “antagonistic behaviors” from established professional bodies.21 Strengthening this independence is crucial for maintaining a space for critical discourse, innovation, and alternative narratives, especially given the pervasive internet censorship.10 Support for such platforms enables the profession to maintain a vital channel for communication, professional development, and public engagement that is less susceptible to external control, thereby fostering a more dynamic and responsive social work landscape.
• Recommendation 4: Developing Comprehensive Practitioner Support Systems.
  Given the high rates of burnout and the demanding nature of social work in Iran, it is essential to develop and implement comprehensive support systems for practitioners.22 This includes advocating for adequate staffing levels, fair compensation, and access to mental health services, supervision, and training in managing client violence. Professional bodies, both existing and future unified entities, should prioritize the well-being of social workers to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the workforce. The high rates of burnout are a direct consequence of systemic issues like understaffing and insufficient human resource management.22 Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to improve working conditions and provide robust support mechanisms. Investing in the well-being of social workers is not merely an ethical imperative but a strategic necessity for maintaining the quality and capacity of social services, particularly in a challenging socio-economic environment where social workers bear significant societal burdens.23
• Recommendation 5: Fostering Reciprocal International Collaboration.
  Building upon historical precedents and ISWM’s global outreach, active efforts should be made to foster reciprocal international collaboration and knowledge exchange with global social work organizations and academic institutions.1 This involves not only receiving insights and resources but also proactively sharing Iran’s unique experiences in social work practice, particularly in areas of resilience, crisis intervention, and culturally sensitive approaches within a restrictive environment. Promoting this two-way exchange can enrich global social work theory and practice, moving beyond a unidirectional flow of information. Independent media platforms can serve as crucial conduits for this engagement, bridging potential political complexities and enabling professional dialogue and solidarity.9 This approach recognizes the valuable contributions Iranian social workers can make to the global discourse, fostering a more equitable and comprehensive understanding of social work worldwide.

Resources

1. Brief history of social working in Iran – انجمن مددکاران اجتماعی ایران, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://socialwork.ir/about-socialwork/brief-history-of-social-working-in-iran/
2. Sattareh Farman Farmaian – CSWE, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://www.cswe.org/centers-initiatives/kendall-institute/international-social-work-leader-review/previously-featured-social-work-leaders/sattareh-farman-farmaian/
3. Social Work – ia.uswr.ac.ir, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://ia.uswr.ac.ir/index.jsp?fkeyid=&siteid=1&pageid=9619
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15. Mahsa Amini and the future of internet repression in Iran – Middle East Institute, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://www.mei.edu/publications/mahsa-amini-and-future-internet-repression-iran
16. Social Media in Iran’s Protests: A New Public Sphere? | The Washington Institute, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/social-media-irans-protests-new-public-sphere
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19. Information and Communication Technology Adoption Strategies Among Iranian Older Adults: A Qualitative Evaluation – PubMed, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38633750/
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Public Statement of Solidarity with Social Workers in Iran, زمان دسترسی: اوت 18, 2025، https://www.ifsw.org/public-statement-of-solidarity-with-social-workers-in-iran/