Reflections on social development: Past, present and future

Abstract

This article contributes to a collection of especially commissioned papers to mark the 60^th anniversary of Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk. Reflecting the author’s personal views on the past, present and likely future trajectory of social development, he contends that there has been significant progress, but also severe setbacks that have fostered the currently pessimistic views of the field. Nevertheless, he contends that stubborn optimism is needed and that a commitment to change can mobilise support and result in renewal and significant social improvements. The recent 2025 World Summit on Social Development in Doha suggests that much is possible.