Director-General's message for World Social Work Day

World Social Work Day
Wednesday, 18 March 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Ladies and gentlemen, 
Dear colleagues,

It is a pleasure to welcome you to this online event on the occasion of World Social Work Day.

I would like to warmly thank the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development and its partners for organizing this important event and for their ongoing work to anchor social development in rigorous research, inclusive dialogue and practical action.

This year’s theme — “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society” — resonates deeply with the challenges of our time.

At its core, social work is grounded in human dignity, social justice and community participation. These are principles that lie at the heart of the United Nations.

In many parts of the world, these principles are under strain. We are living through intersecting crises. Inequalities are widening. Climate disruption is accelerating. Conflicts and displacement are affecting millions. In many societies, trust is eroding, polarization is growing, and too many people feel excluded from opportunity and protection. Our social cohesion is fragile.

In this context, the work of social workers is more essential than ever.

I echo the call of the Secretary-General for a “new social contract and a new global deal.” One that restores confidence, strengthens fairness and ensures that human rights and dignity guide public policy.

Social workers contribute to building this contract every day. They stand alongside individuals and families facing exclusion and hardship. They advocate for rights and justice. They help translate global commitments into meaningful change within communities.

By strengthening the bonds that hold societies together — across ages, backgrounds and cultures — social workers foster resilience, compassion and social cohesion. These foundations are indispensable for peaceful and inclusive societies.

Here in Geneva, and across the United Nations system, we recognize that social development must be central to sustainable development. As we continue efforts to advance social protection, decent work and inclusive public services, the insights and experience of social workers remain indispensable.

Ladies and gentlemen,

World Social Work Day is not only a moment of recognition. It is a call to action.

A call to strengthen solidarity in divided societies. A call to ensure that policies reflect compassion and fairness. A call to build institutions that serve people and protect dignity.

On behalf of the United Nations Office at Geneva, I wish to express deep appreciation to social workers around the world for their professionalism, dedication and unwavering commitment to justice and human rights.

Let us continue to pull together — in the spirit of Harambee — to build more inclusive, caring and resilient societies for present and future generations.

Thank you.