Canadian Social Science
Repositioning Social Work for Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding: A Conceptual and Empirical Reflection on Sustainable Development
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between social work practices, conflict resolution, and sustainable peacebuilding. Building on the conceptual framework of social justice and conflict transformation, the research empirically examines how social work engagement influences peacebuilding outcomes within sustainable development contexts. Using a descriptive and correlational design, data was collected from 250 respondents and community practitioners through structured questionnaires. The dataset included three variables: Social Work Engagement, Conflict Resolution, and Sustainable Peacebuilding, all measured on a five-point Likert scale (1= Strongly Disagree, 5 = Strongly Agree). Linear regression analysis was employed to test the hypotheses. Results indicate a statistically significant positive relationship between social work interventions and sustainable peace outcomes (β = 0.48, p < 0.05). The study concludes that integrating conflict-sensitive social work practice substantially enhances sustainable development efforts. Recommendations offered include educational reforms, policy integration, cultural sensitivity, capacity building, and practice innovation in the social work profession.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3968/13926
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