Rural areas and social work: Reflection on research in German-speaking countries

Abstract

Demographic change, securing social services, dealing with migration and agreeing to democratic participation are particularly rural challenges in Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Although social work is responsible for all these issues, there is a lack of a differentiated view. What exactly are rural areas? Who are the relevant actors in and for social work? As the social contexts are very different, research must differentiate and take into account the cultural and historical contexts of regional challenges. This article aims to strengthen the research perspective on rural areas and demonstrate their relevance in the discourse on social work.