The Soul of Service: An Oath of Ethics for Iranian Social Workers
The Soul of Service: An Oath of Ethics for Iranian Social Workers
In every profession dedicated to human welfare, there lies a foundational promise—a silent or spoken commitment to a higher purpose. For social workers in Iran, this promise takes the form of a profound ethical oath, a guiding compass that directs their professional journey. While this oath, rooted in the very establishment of social work as a discipline in Iran, currently serves as a moral rather than a legally binding document, its principles are the very bedrock of the profession.
This oath is a testament to the deep-seated values and responsibilities held by those who dedicate their lives to serving individuals, groups, and society at large. It is not merely a set of rules, but a declaration of purpose, a reflection of the profound ethical and personal commitments of Iranian social workers.
A Pledge of Dedication and Integrity
The oath begins with a solemn declaration: “In the name of God,” a reminder of the spiritual and moral weight of their work. The social worker pledges to align their professional relationships with the Code of Ethics for Social Work, expressing a sincere belief in its principles.
The core of this commitment is a pledge to prioritize the well-being of others. It states: “My first commitment and promise is to provide true service to individuals, groups, and society,” a service that includes striving to improve and advance social conditions. This is a recognition that social work is not just about helping individuals, but about actively contributing to social progress.
A key principle highlighted in the oath is the primacy of professional duty over personal interests. The social worker vows to accept their responsibilities with open arms and to sacrifice personal gain for the public good. This is a crucial ethical stance, particularly in a field where the vulnerable are often at the mercy of professional conduct.
Upholding Trust and Confidentiality
A cornerstone of the social work profession is trust, built upon the foundation of confidentiality. The oath explicitly addresses this, with the social worker promising to “strive to protect people’s secrets from unauthorized individuals.” The principle of professional confidentiality is embraced wholeheartedly, recognizing its importance in creating a safe space for clients to share their struggles.
The oath also speaks to the importance of continuous learning and professional growth. It asserts a deep respect for the scientific findings, knowledge, and opinions of experts in the field, guiding practitioners to approach their work with a logical and evidence-based mindset. By grounding their actions in “science, experience, and social work skills,” social workers ensure their interventions are both effective and ethical.
A Commitment to Social Justice and Community Welfare
Beyond individual practice, the oath extends the social worker’s responsibility to the broader community. They pledge to protect society and actively prevent “inappropriate and unethical actions” by individuals or organizations that are improperly involved in social welfare activities. This is a call to be a vigilant advocate for social justice, upholding the integrity of the profession and the welfare of the community.
The oath also includes a readiness to act in times of crisis, with a clear statement of willingness to provide professional assistance during “sudden events and unexpected public emergencies.” This highlights the social worker’s role as a first responder and a crucial pillar of community support during crises.
A final, but no less important, aspect of the oath is the commitment to self-awareness and objectivity. The social worker promises to differentiate between their personal and professional roles, avoiding the influence of personal biases, emotions, and prejudices in their professional judgments. This dedication to objectivity ensures that they can “perceive human feelings” while still making informed, reality-based decisions.
The Enduring Power of a Promise
While this ethical oath may not hold the force of law, its power lies in its moral weight. It is a promise made not just to an institution, but to humanity itself—a promise to act with integrity, compassion, and professionalism in every aspect of their work. For Iranian social workers, this oath is more than a tradition; it is a living document that defines the essence of their noble profession and guides their journey toward building a more just and compassionate society.
