International Social Work: Themes and Perspectives.
Harris, Helen Wilson
Karen Lyons, International Social Work: Themes and Perspectives,
Aldershot, Hampshire, England: Ashgate Publishing Limited, 1999. 193
pp.. No price given.
"The world is becoming smaller all the time." I have
heard that quote from a number of sources the past twenty or so years.
In her book, International Social Work, Karen Lyons makes the case that
social work professionals must broaden our knowledge base, our
awareness, and our vision to encompass an international perspective on
global challenges, social justice, and what she calls the "social
professions." Her book has grown out of her own interest in the
"commonalities and diversity in the human condition" and in
the increase in regionalization and globalization of issues, resources,
and services. Lyons presents an academic treatment of some of the facets
of social work across nations, cultures, and continents. She
acknowledges that this is an introductory treatment of the subject which
is influenced by her European practice and teaching experience.
Lyons's review of the literature and her overview of
international and trans-world organizations and services. She begins her
book with an introduction to the concepts of global context: and social
change. The impact of political change on social welfare, position of
women and children, treatment of ethnic and religious minorities, and
the resultant impact on migration and refugees are juxtaposed against
social work core values and the commitment of social professions to the
realization of social justice for marginalized populations. This leads
quite naturally to a discussion of the social work profession across the
world including necessary education and professional credentialing requirements in major areas of the world, and international social work
organizations, their membership, and functions. I found this discussion
very important as the school of social work with which I am affiliated
is investigating seriously the possibility of international field
internships. The notions of educational consistency, core values,
credentialing and supervision are not thoroughly addressed, but Lyons
provides a beginning place for further investigation. As a social work
educator, I am aware of the need to teach global concepts and
perspectives and international service opportunities and
responsibilities.
Perhaps some of the most powerful discussion in the book is that
about various nations, their definitions of citizenship, human rights,
exploitation of women and children for labor, and the most empowering of
the economically oppressed as the most effective intervention. Intra-,
and international conflict, human and natural disasters, and the
displacing of large populations in civil war all contribute to the
poverty and injustice that affect large portions of the worlds's
citizens. The "small world" we now live in allows us awareness
of disasters, loss of life, compromised liberty, and allows oppressed
peoples exposure to the possibilities of justice and opportunity, both
economic and social.
Karen Lyons provides much food for thought as she proposes that
responsible and effective social work practice must now encompass more
than local and even national awareness and competence. Her use of and
definitions of terms like cross-border and supra-national social
work-practice challenge us to broaden our vision. Awareness of
multinational need and social injustice, the availability of resources
and the opportunity for global communication and travel all lead to a
natural conclusion that the profession of social work is positioned to
provide answers and intervention. International focus and competence are
required to address the phenomena of poverty, migration, and disaster,
This important book provides a springboard for reflection, further
study, and most importantly, social work response.
Helen Wilson Harris
School of Social Work
Baylor University
Waco, Texas
