Systemic challenges and international guidelines for social worker training and professional development in Ukraine

This article presents a systematic analysis of the state of education and professional development of social workers in Ukraine during the war and in the post-crisis context.The focus is placed on comparing national approaches to social work education with the provisions of the updated Global Standards for Social Work Education and Training and best international practices implemented in countries with well-established social policy systems. The research reveals significant gaps between the content of Ukrainian educational programs, the level of field training, the engagement of professional communities, and the general principles recommended by global organizations.Particularly critical issues identified include the instability of the educational process caused by warfare and displacement, the absence of institutionalized supervision mechanisms, the underdevelopment of continuing professional development (CPD), insufficient integration with the labor market, and limited international collaboration. These factors significantly hinder the capacity of Ukraine’s social service sector to respond effectively to growing societal needs in times of crisis.Methodologically, the study is based on a qualitative analysis of national regulations, official reports, academic literature, and comparative international experiences. It demon- strates that effective modernization of the social work education system in Ukraine requires not only a revision of formal educational standards but also comprehensive institutional transformation. This includes the establishment of strong professional associations, the reinforcement of human resources policy, the implementation of structured supervision practices, and the development of sustainable international partnerships. The article proposes a vision for transforming educational and professional policy, grounded in the principles of adaptability, ethical commitment, cultural sensitivity, and cross- sectoral collaboration. These principles are vital for preparing competent and resilient social workers capable of addressing the complex challenges faced by communities during wartime and throughout recovery.