Social Work as an Instrument of State Social Policy in the Context of Social Transformations and Digitalization

Abstract

Social policy is a key component of public administration, serving as a mechanism for preventing economic, social, and political inequality. In periods of rapid social transformation, its importance increases, along with the role of social work as a primary instrument for its implementation. Globally, social work is recognized as a socially significant profession that contributes to social stability and the well-being of vulnerable populations. Accordingly, examining social work as a tool of state social policy in changing social conditions remains highly relevant. This study aims to analyze contemporary scholarly literature to identify the main factors influencing social work in the context of social transformations and to assess the effectiveness of state social policy under these conditions. The methodology combines general scientific approaches, including analysis and synthesis, deduction and induction, and methods of systematization and grouping. In addition, public policy research methods such as social modeling, concretization, and system analysis are applied. The subject of the study is social work as a structural component of state social policy during periods of transformation. The findings indicate that social policy reflects the system of social relations in society, where the state, social services, and communities share responsibility for supporting vulnerable groups. Its effectiveness depends on coordinated interaction between public institutions and social workers in designing and implementing social protection measures. Emotional support, empathy, and preventive interventions are essential elements of social work, contributing to social rehabilitation and cohesion. In times of transformation, rising social and psychological tensions require social workers to act as facilitators of stability, fostering community engagement and supporting local initiatives.