Dries Claessens

Dries Claessens is a Lecturer in Social Work at Artesis Plantijn University College in Antwerp since 2004. He teaches interdisciplinary subjects including methodology, political/social policy, and historical perspectives in social work. His research focuses on activation practices in Flanders' welfare organizations (OCMWs), older prisoners' circumstances, and the history of social work. He authored A History of Social Work (2017) and contributes to the Knowledge Centre iSOS.

Education: Studied Social Work and Sociology.

Research Interests: Explores political/social policy formulation, historical trajectories of social work practices, and contemporary challenges in welfare systems. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical field observations, particularly in marginalized populations like elderly prisoners.

Affiliations: Member of the Knowledge Centre iSOS, engaged in collaborative research initiatives.