Dr. Kadir Gündüz

Dr. Kadir Gündüz is a child welfare practitioner, researcher, and international speaker specializing in comparative child protection systems, family preservation, foster care, and adoption policy. With extensive professional experience in child protective services in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he has dedicated his career to improving outcomes for vulnerable children and families through evidence-informed practice and cross-cultural research. 

Dr. Gündüz's scholarly work examines the historical, legal, and philosophical foundations of child welfare systems in the United States and Türkiye. His pioneering comparative research highlights the role of preventive, family-centered interventions in reducing unnecessary family separation while promoting children's safety and well-being. His work has contributed to international discussions on child protection reform, foster care, and the development of culturally responsive child welfare policies. 

In addition to his professional practice, Dr. Gündüz and his wife served as licensed foster parents for eight years and later adopted two children, bringing both professional expertise and personal experience to his work. He is a passionate advocate for policies that strengthen families, prioritize prevention, and support children within their communities whenever safely possible. 

As a speaker, Dr. Gündüz offers a unique perspective that bridges research, policy, and frontline practice, engaging audiences with thoughtful analysis of global child welfare systems and practical approaches to strengthening child and family well-being.