Professional profile and working conditions of social work professionals in non-governmental organizations in Paraguay, 2023

Abstract

This study addresses one of the scenarios of professional practice, with the objective of “analyzing the professional profile and working conditions of social workers employed by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Paraguay.” Observational, descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study. Non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The sample consisted of 110 professionals who were employed by or had work experience in an NGO. A survey was conducted using an online questionnaire (Google Forms), and the data was exported to Microsoft Excel for processing. Participation by professionals was voluntary, with prior informed consent. The findings reveal a work environment characterized by structural instability, with 92.7% facing significant difficulties. Precariousness manifests itself in temporary or informal contracts, variable working hours, low pay, and lack of health coverage. There is high job turnover, with only 38.2% currently working in an NGO. Social workers develop a comprehensive and multifunctional professional profile, combining direct work with users (80.0%) with advisory, evaluation, project development, and management functions. Work difficulties were experienced by 92.7%, although they also reported favorable levels of job satisfaction (89.1%), positive levels of autonomy (65.3%), and a high perception of professional contribution. Professionals express training needs with a wide range of topics mentioned. Despite social workers experiencing precarious working conditions, the NGO sector is a space for professional recognition and autonomy that positions them favorably and is a field of work with significant potential for social work.