Nordic Social Work Research

Changes in the Nordic Welfare States and Consequences for Social Work

The Nordic welfare States are frequently highlighted in international welfare debates as exemplary models of success. However, welfare states are dynamic entities that undergo continuous transformation. These transformations inevitably impact social work, often exerting pressure and presenting challenges to the profession. This conference seeks to examine the evolving landscape of social work and its interplay with changes in the welfare state.

Several political trends have notably influenced social work, including workfare policies and supply-side economic reforms characterized by ongoing adjustments in benefits and interventions. As a result, the Nordic countries no longer distinguish themselves by low inequality and low relative poverty, though welfare states still differ. The changing global structures, political climate, and prevailing ideologies are also evident in the Nordic context. Political debates and shifts concerning the scope and extent of the welfare state’s social responsibilities are prominent, particularly in areas such as employment, care, child protection and integration. These developments necessitate a focus on service users and expanding areas of vulnerability.

In the area of governance, New Public Management has been predominant for several years. However, there is growing criticism of this approach and experimentation with alternative governance models, such as New Public Governance, which emphasizes trust, inclusion, and partnerships. Organizational reforms and interprofessional collaboration are also pivotal, alongside an increasing recognition of civil society’s essential role. Regarding citizens, the emphasis is on rights and fostering meaningful engagement, where service users are regarded as equal participants. However, professionals often experience dilemmas and cross pressure in practice.

The evolving perspective on knowledge also shapes development. The emphasis on evidence and evidence-based practice has been significant for several years, and more recently, the potential for data driven steering and technological developments has gained attention. At the same time, the profession advocates for the inclusion of holistic, relational and reflective practice.

This special issue aims to illuminate social work within the context of the Nordic welfare states’ evolution over recent decades, exploring the implications for practitioners, citizens, education, and the profession.

This Special Issue invites both established and early-career researchers and especially the participants at the Nordic FORSA / NASSW conference in 2026 to share their knowledge and research in the field.

Keywords:

• Social policy
• Welfare-state change
• Social work Management
• Governance
• Knowledge production

Contributions to the special issue relates to the overall theme of changes in the Nordic Welfare States and the Consequences for social work and may include empirical studies on contemporary social work in the Nordic countries in relation to the following themes:

• Policy changes
• Organizational changes and governance
• Technological changes and changes in knowledge production