Synergising Social Work and Indigenous Value Systems for Addressing Contemporary Social Issues: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Contemporary social work faces mounting pressure to transcend its historically Eurocentric theoretical foundations and engage more meaningfully with diverse epistemological traditions. Indigenous value systems, characterised by holistic well-being, relational ontologies, communal responsibility, and deep ecological connectedness, offer substantial conceptual resources for enriching social work practice in ways that are culturally responsive, community-centred, and structurally transformative. This review article examines the theoretical and practical dimensions of synergising social work with Indigenous value systems to address pressing contemporary social challenges, including mental health crises, child welfare concerns, environmental degradation, and entrenched social inequalities. Drawing on a narrative review of peer-reviewed literature and authoritative international reports, the article identifies key convergence points between social work and Indigenous epistemologies, critically analyses the decolonisation imperative within the profession, and proposes a conceptual framework that integrates Indigenous knowledge systems into mainstream social work theory and practice. The framework emphasises four interlocking principles: epistemic pluralism, relational accountability, cultural safety, and structural transformation. The article further discusses implications for social work education, policy formulation, and frontline practice, whilst acknowledging the significant challenges posed by institutional inertia, tokenism, and unresolved tensions between Western and Indigenous paradigms. It is suggested that the genuine integration of Indigenous value systems into social work holds considerable promise not only for improving outcomes for Indigenous populations but also for reinvigorating the broader social work profession in its pursuit of social justice and human dignity.