Social work in a changing Europe

Walter Lorenz outlines his belief by which social work plays a central role to play in shaping a better functioning and more cohesive Europe. He explains the historical contexts of the varying models of social work to underline how he sees social work as an assett to the further development of an integrative civil society which accepts, values and nurtures cultural diversities, individual, personal and collective identities. Laying bare the damage inflicted by top-down and bottom-up political extremism and racism, Lorenz commends confrontation at all levels to promote user-control and change within the structures of welfare systems. Through his analysis of ideolgical and historical imperatives, the diversity of national focus and richness of tradition, Lorenz outlines the situation facing the differing models of social work practice across Europe. Finally, he considers the emerging issues which will face social work and how these challenges might be met to better shape practice in a 'Changing Europe'.