Invitation: ICSD Africa Working Paper Webinar Series 2026

The ICSD Africa Branch Working Paper Webinar Series continues in 2026 with an important presentation reflecting on global developments in social development policy and practice.

This upcoming webinar (on March 25, 2026), “Reflections on the Second World Summit for Social Development | Doha, Qatar | 2025,” will feature Prof. Antoinette Lombard, Professor of Social Work at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and President of the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW).

During the session, Prof. Lombard will share first-hand reflections from the Second World Summit for Social Development, where global leaders, policymakers, and civil society actors gathered in Doha, Qatar to renew international commitments to social justice, poverty eradication, and inclusive social development. Her reflections will provide valuable insights into the key discussions, priorities, and implications of the summit for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers working in the field of social development.

The webinar will be chaired by Dr. Khanya Ndhlovu, Researcher at the Centre for Social Development in Africa, University of Johannesburg.

We warmly encourage ICSD members and colleagues to register for this engaging session and contribute to the conversation on advancing global and regional social development agendas.

Invitation: World Social Work Day 2026 at the United Nations Office in Geneva

You are warmly invited to participate in World Social Work Day 2026, which will be celebrated at the United Nations Office in Geneva on 18 March 2026 (10:00–15:30 CET). The event will be held virtually via Zoom, providing an opportunity for members around the world to join the discussion.

This year’s theme, “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” highlights the essential role of social work in strengthening social cohesion, rebuilding trust, and fostering inclusive and resilient communities. Inspired by the African philosophy of harambee—meaning “pulling together”—the event emphasizes collective action and collaboration in addressing social divisions across communities, institutions, and societies.

The WSWD 2026 will explore several important questions relevant to social work practice and policy: aims to explore four issues:

  • How can we foster social cohesion in marginalized communities?
  • How can we overcome conflict, polarization and exclusion?
  • How can social work contribute to building resilient communities?
  • How can social workers and UN organizations work together for inclusive, resilient and peaceful societies?

We encourage ICSD members and colleagues to register and participate in this important global dialogue on the future of social development and social work.

Please register and join the session to engage with scholars, practitioners, and international organizations working toward more inclusive and harmonious societies.