Building Resilient Communities: Social Work in the Era of Sustainable Development

Social Work for Sustainable Futures As the world confronts deepening inequality, climate instability, poverty, and social fragmentation, the call for sustainable development has never been more urgent. Yet the critical role of social workers in advancing sustainability remains underexplored. Social Work for Sustainable Futures bridges this gap by positioning social work at the heart of global and local development agendas. Drawing on theory, policy, and practice, this book unpacks how social workers contribute to poverty reduction, social justice, environmental stewardship, community resilience, and inclusive growth. It highlights the profession’s alignment with the principles of the United Nations and the transformative vision of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Blending critical analysis with practical insights, this text demonstrates how social workers act as advocates, policy influencers, community mobilisers, and change agents across micro, mezzo, and macro levels of intervention. It challenges practitioners, scholars, and students to rethink development through a social work lens—one grounded in human rights, equity, participation, and sustainability. Timely and compelling, this book is an essential resource for academics, practitioners, policymakers, and students committed to building resilient communities and advancing a more just and sustainable world.