Hradec Days of Social Work 2023

Hradec Days of Social Work

 

When? On 7th and 8th September 2023 

Where? Hradec Králové, Hradecká 1227, building A

And the theme?

Respect for Diversity

Respect for diversity is one of the basic ethical principles, and it is even explicitly included in the global definition of social work developed by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). Alongside social justice, human rights and collective responsibility, it is explicitly named here as one of the key principles. In the International Federation of Social Workers’ 2018 Statement of Ethical Principles, section 3.2 is devoted to it, declaring that social workers “work toward strengthening inclusive communities that respect the ethnic and cultural diversity of societies, taking account of individual, family, group, and community differences.” This principle is considered here as one of the prerequisites for the promotion of social justice. 

We understand the theme of the Hradec Days of Social Work in 2023 in a broad sense that goes beyond ethnic, racial, national and cultural dimensions. We would also like to include in the discussion diversity resulting from gender, age, health status, social or economic position, sexual identity, political ideology and different worldviews. 

We welcome contributions focused on the theory and practice of social work in all its sectors.

During the conference, we will be looking especially for answers to the following questions, which are also the main thematic areas of the conference:

1. How does the principle of respect for diversity relate to other principles and values of social work, such as social justice, social equality, human rights, collective responsibility, human dignity, the right to self-determination, the right to participation, a holistic approach, and others? What conflicts can arise between respect for diversity and other principles or values? How should potential conflicts of principles or values be resolved?

2. What tools for assessing the adverse situations of clients (individuals, families, groups, communities) represent respect for diversity well? Within this question, there is also room for critical reflection on instruments that, on the contrary, do not take this principle into account well.

3. What practical strategies contribute to promoting respect for diversity? It is also essential to critically reflect on strategies that do not work or conflict with the principle of the individual approach. 

4. How do the stereotypes and prejudices that clash with the value of uniqueness in social work theory and practice work and how do they manifest themselves?

5. How can respect for diversity be promoted in social work education? We welcome experiences, procedures and examples of good practice from both the qualifying education and lifelong learning.

6. How can diversity and inclusion be promoted in international and global contexts?