International Federation of Social Workers

A further point of development was in 1959 when IFSW was granted consultative status with the United Nations’ Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The 1980s saw the development of the global definition of social workers and IFSW was declared a "Peace Messenger" by the United Nations in 1985.

At the beginning of the 21st century, IFSW developed a training manual, Social Work and the Rights of the Child.

Additionally, IFSW has since achieved consultative status with the World Health Organization (WHO) and now comprises ninety member associations representing over 750,000 social workers.

After two years of global consultation, the specific objectives of the agenda were published on UN Social Work Day 2012.

The third theme, is currently in progress looking at climate change, the wide context of environment and building sustainable communities.