The implications of neoliberalism for social work: Reflections from a six-country international research collaboration

Abstract

The near global implementation of public sector and social welfare reform as a result of neoliberal economic reform has impacted on social work and social inequality. State strategies to reduce social and economic inequality are being challenged and rolled back. This article uses the reflections from a six-country EU-funded social work research collaboration to promote debate and compare global social work perspectives, to highlight the complexity of research, to explore implications for practice and the Global Agenda. It concludes by highlighting that global comparisons are complex, multi-faceted and that political, cultural and economic context is critical to develop effective responses.