Compare and contrast the three definitions of international social work presented (IFSW, Healy, and Patterson). How are they similar and how are they different? Which aspects of these definitions do you consider most important and why?
All the definitions on social work by the three groups of people are in agreement with the fact that social work exists in order to enhance the lives of individuals. This involves: empowerment and enhancement of people`s lives and also promoting human rights along with the establishment of social justice ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). From the definitions provided on social work, some of the most important aspects pertain to the establishment of human rights. Through the anti-oppressive practices, a terminology common in English speaking nations such as Germany, such subjugation on other people`s rights is greatly discouraged ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). Social work has the ability to promote other people`s right and ensure that they are able to live peacefully in the society. Besides this, in relation to empowerment of people, social work manages to focus on minority people in the society. The anti-oppressive models established by social workers have the ability to alleviate the suffering of individuals. Besides this, it is likely to offer liberation to those who have been oppressed.
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In relation to the above, it has been established that missionaries and social workers can move into a society seeking to empower the inhabitants. By looking into social work in Romania, it is apparent that not all the non-governmental organization and social workers are concerned about the wellness of individuals ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). This was observed after it emerged that some of these people had set out certain conditions that they required to be met in order for them to fulfill their obligation to the people ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). This demonstrates their unwillingness to serve the people whole-heartedly. On the contrary, the people of Romania were successful in learning a lot regarding social work owing to the teachings and experience working alongside, Americans who had gone to Romania seeking to assist the people ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). This managed to empower them to undertake their own initiatives on the same.
What do you learn from the history of international social work and international missions work as presented in the article and your own knowledge base regarding best practices for international work today?
It is apparent that social work is very important in the community we live in. It requires social work in order for people to develop the required level of humility. Jesus Christ is a perfect example of an individual who managed to liberate the entire human race from their sinful nature. He did not come from above, but was instead born in a humble setting where he grew to learn and serve God and later the community ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). People should as well learn to emulate his example. The best practices for social work in the international community should be undertaken in such a manner that does not seek to gain from the initiative. It should be done unreservedly. By appreciating cultural humility one can be in a position to recognize unfair dealings and also establish ways that can be used in the alteration of such practices. Or means by which the society can receive the assistance required.
Based upon past historical social work, it is evident that colonial practices have a tendency of impacting on such an incentive. This is evident in a situation whereby cultural imperialism is rife in international social work. The event of this occurs in situations whereby oppressive practices have managed to tarnish the reputation of social work. This should, however, not in any way inhibit the establishment of social work or discredit this important practice in the society. Enhancement of practices that foster human dignity and self-determination as well as living with regard to the calling of Christ to the people is what social work ideally advocates for. Further still, due to globalization, social work has managed to permeate throughout the international community. The best example on how this has impacted on social work in the past is the end an era of communism in Europe ( Collins & Lester, 2017 ). Social workers moved to the areas involved in order to teach people on social practices that can help them develop their community.
Owing to the above examples on social work there is no doubt whatsoever that this practice is fundamental in any society. The practices of such incentives have managed to change various societies. As the various authors on social work imply, it is a practice based on promotion of human rights and establishment of social justice in the community. Though some of the people have managed to tarnish this practice of self-devotion, it is evident that the initiative of social work is bound to remain relevant to the society for generations to come.
Reference
Collins, R., & Lester, R. (2017). Christianity and Social Work: Readings on the Integration of Christian Faith and Social Work Practice. Social Work , 1-2.
