The near global implementation of public sector and social welfare reform as a result of neoliberal economic reform has impacted on social work and social inequality. State strategies to reduce social Corresponding author: Gary Spolander, Charles Ward Building, Coventry University, Priory Street, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK. Email: g.spolander@coventry.ac.uk 524964I SW0010.1177/0020872814524964International Social WorkSpolander et al. research-article2014Article 302 International Social Work 57(4)and economic inequality are being challenged and rolled back. This article uses the reflections from a six-country EU-funded social work research collaboration to promote debate and compare global social work perspectives, to highlight the complexity of research, to explore implications for practice and the Global Agenda. It concludes by highlighting that global comparisons are complex, multifaceted and that political, cultural and economic context is critical to develop effective responses.

Whilst 50% of child protection workers across much of Europe and the affluent 'West' leave after 2 years, many stay and develop substantial professional careers. This paper discusses research in Italy, Sweden and England examining what factors explain 'remaining' for more than 3 years in this stressful job. Underpinned by a hermeneutic epistemology, qualitative interviews were undertaken and subject to an interpretative thematic analysis. The findings proved to be complex and multi-layered and this paper presents an overview of these. The theoretical framework for the project mainly drew on organizations and resilience, and the initial sections of the paper consider how formulations of resilience as contextual and relational can elucidate professional sustainability. Organisational issues are considered, including the impact of work management, of supervision and of allocation in different national contexts. The paper also focuses on the role of friendships and informal support at work. Threaded through these established themes are more, perhaps surprising, concepts: e.g. creativity, power, reflexive spaces and interpersonal relations as explanatory of remaining in child protection work.

An emerging global consciousness and rising attention given to international social work development has seen the recognition of comparative research within the profession. Understanding the functioning and organisation of social work within various country contexts is critical in order to formulate knowledge around its overall impact, successes and challenges, allowing social workers to learn from one another and build professional consolidation. The profession is mapped out in 10 countries, reflecting on its structure, identity and development. Although the profession is developing globally, it is also experiencing significant challenges. Key insights, conclusions and recommendations for future research are presented.

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