A Critical Review of Structure and Operation of Social Work in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Social work is a profession and discipline in which scientific method and principles are used. While the principles and focus of the profession are universal, priorities of its practice change depending cultural, historical and socioeconomical conditions. Social welfare and social work in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) have been shaped by changing political and historical process through centuries. In this study, evolution and current situation of social work are critically discussed in terms of human rights, social justice and equality which are three main principles of social work. It is recognized that there is a necessity to change mariginalized and discriminated terms taken place in legal arrangements used for population groups seeking social work. Furthermore, it is clear that legislative regulations about social work in changing and transforming TRNC are insufficient to meet current needs. Lastly, insufficient protective and preventive studies which are main functions of social work is also remarkable