Editorial: Social Work in a Superdiverse Society [Editorial: Social Work in a Superdiverse Society]

The initiative of the team from the Department of Social Work at the West University of Timișoara to propose a special issue dedicated to the analysis of the social work field in an increasingly super-diverse world was motivated by the global challenges of adapting social support to the needs of a population that is becoming more diverse in terms of culture, religion, gender, identity, ethnicity, socio-economic status, or lifestyle.
We briefly present below the articles published in the current issue of the Social Work Review, no. 2/2025.

The first article in the issue, authored by our colleague from the University of Trento, Annamaria Perino, addresses current challenges in the field of palliative care in Italy. Her analysis highlights the role of social workers in providing holistic support to individuals and families navigating the delicate terrain of end-of-life care. Researcher Mariana Stanciu's article tackles the timely issue of social integration in Romania through home ownership. With an original and rarely explored topic in Romanian social discourse, PhD student Andreea Snejana Simici contributes an article on temporary architecture as a tool for social integration. Understanding of human movement and its implications is enriched by Radu Simion's "Living Roots. Migration as a Path to Biocultural Renewal." This article offers a nuanced perspective on migration, framing it not merely as displacement but as a potential catalyst for biocultural enrichment, a vital consideration in our increasingly interconnected world.

The issue continues with an article by Patricia Runcan from Timișoara, exploring the roles and social connections of professionals in situations of military conflict.
Seeking conceptual clarity, Marina Alexandra Tudoran, Laurențiu Gabriel Țîru, and Alexandru Neagoe present a Bibliometric Analysis of Converging Concepts of Social Justice. Their rigorous analysis offers a valuable overview of the intellectual landscape surrounding this core tenet of social work, contributing to a more nuanced and informed understanding.

The attitudes and perceptions within our communities are relevant for social integration. Georgiana Imre's study on "Students' Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Ex-inmates" provides valuable insights into the societal barriers faced by individuals reintegrating after incarceration.

Exploring innovative approaches in supporting vulnerable populations, Elena Maria Felea (Bochiș) et al. offer an analysis of "Social Workers' Perspectives on Innovative Methods and Techniques in Supporting People with Disabilities." Their findings shed light on evolving practices of social work professionals in this area.

From the field of health psychology, an article by Dragana Herțegan (PhD student) and Professor Mona Vintilă is included. The interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being is brought to the forefront by this article, that underscores the often-overlooked psychosocial impact of dermatological issues and the vital role of social work in addressing these complex needs. Another article, on the social implications of tattoos and body image, was accepted from authors Svetlana-Daciana Flueraru and Mona Vintilă.

Three PhD students in social work from WUT  Geanina-Ștefania Moţăţeanu, Monica Angelica Todea, and Mihaela Gabriela Irimia  published a study on rural elderly communities in Timiș County.This contribution highlights the intersectionality of vulnerability and the crucial role of social work in ensuring equitable support in increasingly diverse communities.

The article "Protection Measures and Community Integration of Elderly People in a Situation of Social Isolation: Challenges and Solutions in the Context of Contemporary Romania" offers timely insights into addressing social isolation, a significant concern in modern society.
Professor Remus Runcan, together with Dana Rad and Gavril Rad, were accepted for publication with an article on resilience in domestic violence situations.This work offers a refined understanding of resilience, providing valuable frameworks for intervention and support.

Mihai Daniel's article "Determinant Factors of Child-Family Separation: A Socio-Demographic Analysis in Cluj County" provides a socio-demographic analysis, offering data-driven insights for prevention and intervention efforts in child protection.
Alin Horvath and Mihaela Gavrilă-Ardelean article entitled "Improving the Quality of Life for Children from Disadvantaged Backgrounds and Social Integration through Team Sports", highlight the potential of community-based initiatives in fostering well-being and inclusion.

The paper "Learn and apply  Applied methods and techniques in social work" aims to analyse the techniques and methods used by social workers in interaction with beneficiaries, as well as the role of communication in the practice of social work.
Finally, the article "The Principles of Catholic Social Doctrine. Useful Aspects for Social Workers" offers a valuable contribution to the intersection of theology and social practice. The article explores the conceptual frameworks of caritas theology and Catholic social teaching, advocating for a multi- and transdisciplinary approach to the formation of resilient professionals in both diaconal and social services.

The articles included in this issue address diverse topics grounded in theoretical analysis, research, critical and reflective approaches, and practical proposals that align with the themes.We trust that this issue of Social Work Review will stimulate critical thinking, inspire innovative approaches, and further strengthen the vital role of social work in navigating the social complexities of our time.