Crises, Social Work and Movements: The Greek Case

Abstract

This chapter attempts to explore radical social work in times of crisis. Taking Greece as an example, I examine two specific periods in the last decade: the financial and refugee crises. Nevertheless, the two crises are not viewed nor defined as separate, isolated phenomena; instead, they constitute an integral part of the neoliberal capitalist system, with severe implications on peoples’ lives. In turn, the discussion will focus on social movements’ growth as a response of the people to the crises. This chapter will draw particular attention to the solidarity and anti-racist movement by providing example of solidarity structures, such as, solidarity clinics in the health sector and grassroot initiatives. Finally, based on our field research, I will underline the relation between these structures and social work, social innovation in social services through social activism and political and collective action’s implications on social work as a commitment to social justice.