Xenophobia means fear or hatred towards foreigners and has caused social conflicts, discrimination, and violence throughout history. Derived from the Greek words “xenos” (foreigner) and “phobos” (fear), this concept particularly targets vulnerable groups such as refugees and immigrants. Examined in many fields such as psychology, anthropology, and law, xenophobia also emerges as a significant issue in the field of social work. Experts state that xenophobic attitudes can even be seen among social service professionals and that this can increase discrimination.
In recent years, political rhetoric and misinformation have further fueled xenophobia, creating a challenging environment for immigrants. In Turkey, the influx of Syrian refugees has caused tensions with the local population, making this an important issue to be addressed in the field of social work. For a more inclusive society, experts emphasize the importance of combating xenophobia and raising social awareness.
Xenophobia and Social Service Professionals
The research is a mixed study, examining the xenophobic attitudes of social workers working in the field of migration in Turkey. In this context, a quantitative study was first conducted by reaching a large group of social workers, followed by a qualitative study with a small group. Thus, the xenophobic attitudes of social workers could be explained with both quantitative and qualitative findings.
Since the 1970s, increasing anti-racism discussions have highlighted the critical role of social service professionals in preventing discrimination against vulnerable groups such as refugees and immigrants. The research not only offers suggestions for social service education but also emphasizes the necessity of proactive measures against xenophobia and support programs for victims. The findings not only help understand the complexity of xenophobia but also guide innovative practices that promote an inclusive and empathetic social structure.
Anti-Xenophobia Struggle in Social Work
The commitment of social service professionals to ethical values and professional standards is the cornerstone of effective and inclusive services. The role of these professionals in combating xenophobia and discrimination is not limited to individual actions but also has the potential to create societal impacts. Integrating anti-xenophobic values into social service education, increasing in-service training, strengthening supervision mechanisms, and conducting awareness campaigns are critical steps in this struggle. In Turkey, establishing a professional chamber and supervision mechanism that upholds ethical standards in the field of social work can strengthen the ethical stance in practices. These initiatives aim to improve current practices and guide future research to develop a more inclusive and empathetic social service approach.
Study link: https://doi.org/10.1177/14680173241240979
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