ocial work as a profession generally lacks academic credibility and maturity. Students are often trained to implement policy rather than critique alternatives; furthermore, what little research takes place is separate and of low quality. The EU-funded CIVIL_SW (Civil engagement in social work: Developing global models) project examined the role of social work. The initiative focused on social welfare in the context of neoliberal reform. Researchers studied new public management initiatives in 10 countries. Project results documented factors affecting social work practice and research. The team noted a general decline, due in part to austerity and commercialisation of services. The study thus confirmed the necessity for improving the field’s research profile. A major reason for the current situation is that social work curricula do not emphasise policy development and research skills. The context of a low-quality international research environment also impacted the project. Given that funding for postgraduate study is often limited under European austerity measures, the CIVIL_SW team experienced difficulty recruiting suitable researchers. The consortium also suffered several further setbacks related to personnel and partner composition, which affected the research and timing of key events. Lastly, the 2016 attempted coup in Turkey and repercussions also affected the project’s research. Nevertheless, researchers compiled a research matrix containing data from 10 countries. The resource enabled comparison of the various groups with whom social workers engage. The team also created a conceptual map of the themes relating to social inequalities. Investigators studied the roles of social workers as well as their relationships to the welfare state and to service users and providers. Researchers explored the various socio-political drivers of welfare reform and factors affecting population well-being. Finally, the team reviewed current best practice in the field. The findings stimulated debate. The CIVIL_SW project’s identification of necessary improvements to social work research will lead to improvements in the profession.