Social policy and social dimensions on vulnerability and resilience in Europe

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Current public discussions reveal two tendencies regarding social issues. One perspective attributes social problems to individual failings, dismissing socio-economic inequality as a factor. This has led to a growing trend in Europe favoring self-activation and self-help as alternatives to traditional social work. Conversely, the book identifies new forms of social vulnerability and challenges for social work and policy, particularly in a European context. It examines social exclusion processes that emerged in the last century, rooted in significant changes in employment, weakened family structures, and the welfare state's diminishing capacity to foster social inclusion. Emerging vulnerabilities present both opportunities and risks, explored through two lenses. First, the implementation of indicator-based management systems for social services introduces ethical and professional challenges. Second, self-help movements and social networks often complement social work, although there is a tendency to replace traditional support with self-activation strategies. These developments highlight the urgent need to clarify the social and political dimensions of social work in societies grappling with issues of civility, human development, and social security, while also addressing the burdens faced by vulnerable populations amid psychological, ecological, and economic challenges. The book aims to synthesize various European perspectives