International Social Work: Professional Action in an Interdependent World

International Social Work: Professional Action in an Interdependent World is a comprehensive introduction that places social work history, practice, policy, and education within an international perspective. Two main themes-global interdependence and professional action-are emphasized in this complete examination of an increasingly global profession. The author provides a four-part definition of international social work, emphasizing competence for professional action in international aspects of domestic practice and policy; professional exchange; international development practice; and policy formulation and advocacy at the global level. The economic, cultural, environmental, and social welfare implications of global interdependence are addressed through a discussion of resource utilization, poverty, structural adjustment and the debt crisis, migration, HIV/AIDS, and the rights of women and children. A chapter on value and ethical dilemmas considers how context influences the ways in which social issues are approached, and case examples from Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and the Caribbean are used throughout the book to illustrate concepts. The text concludes with an exploration of universal concepts for social work around the world including social development, human rights, multiculturalism, social exclusion, sustainability, and security. From direct service to policy and administration, International Social Work: Professional Action in an Interdependent World provides a thorough overview of the international dimensions of social work practice. It is an essential text for all social work students and practitioners and provides a sound foundation for future academic and career exploration in international social work.