Challenges of practicing professional social work in Bangladesh: perspectives from public sector service providers

ABSTRACT This study aimed to explore the challenges of professional social work practice in Bangladesh from the perspective of government social service providers. Based on the qualitative approach, the study findings highlighted that unfamiliarity with the social work discipline, lack of professional recognition, absence of specific employment for social work graduates, and limited understanding of social work among policymakers remain significant challenges for social work practice in Bangladesh. The paper advocates for concerted efforts by academicians, researchers, social service professionals and policymakers to overcome those challenges. The paper has insights for developing countries in addressing the challenges of professional social work practice.