Arlt Lecture: Attacks on Social Work
Why Solidarity with Hungary's Social Work Matters
Since 2010, Hungary’s government has been building an authoritarian system under the label of "illiberal democracy." Its principles contradict the core values of social work. Social workers have repeatedly been pressured to act against homeless people, the poor, and LGBTQ+ communities.
In 2022, the government introduced a new concept of “care policy,” aiming to replace social work with ideologically controlled training programs starting in 2024. At the same time, civil society organizations – including the Hungarian Association of Social Workers – are being defamed as “foreign agents.” In 2025, a state agency published a list of “enemies of the nation,” targeting organizations advocating for minority rights and democratic values.
The attacks on Hungarian NGOs and the LGBTQ+ community show how quickly democracy and social justice can be undermined. This event sheds light on current developments and calls for international solidarity – because what is happening in Hungary could happen elsewhere, too.
Speakers
- Katalin Szoboszlai (3SZ)
- Sandor Meleg (SzMMe)
Further information
