The 37th ASEAN Summit, held in Hanoi, Vietnam on 12th November 2020, marked a significant step towards a more cohesive and responsive ASEAN Community as the ASEAN Leaders adopted the Hanoi Declaration on Strengthening Social Work Towards Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN Community. This declaration underscores the critical role that social workers play in promoting social welfare and development within the ASEAN region.
The Hanoi Declaration outlines a comprehensive commitment from ASEAN member states to strengthen social work and leverage its potential for building a better future for the region. Here are some key aspects of the declaration:
Why is the Declaration Important?
The Hanoi Declaration is a significant development as it signifies a regional recognition of the vital role social workers play in addressing social challenges and promoting well-being. The declaration paves the way for collaboration between ASEAN member states to strengthen social work education, training, and practice. By strengthening social work, the declaration has the potential to improve the delivery of social services to vulnerable populations across ASEAN.
The Road Ahead
The Hanoi Declaration serves as a roadmap for advancing social work in ASEAN. Implementing the declaration will require concrete actions from member states, as outlined in the bulleted points above. By working together, ASEAN member states can leverage the power of social work to build a brighter future for all citizens in the region.