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International Social Work
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1. What is the difference between universalism and cultural relativism in terms of international social work?
Universalism is the position that states that core values apply to all human beings, irrespective of their identity, including cultural background or personal preferences. Cultural relativism argues that culture is the sole source for the validity of a moral right or rule, and that members of one society may not legitimately condemn the practices of societies with different traditions.
2. What constitutes a child soldier? Where do child soldiers exist?
Child soldiers are defined as any person below 18 years of age who is or has been recruited or used by an armed force or armed group in any capacity, including but not limited to children, both boys and girls, used as fighters, cooks, porters, messengers, spies, or for sexual purposes. Child soldiers are said to be fighting all over the world.
3. How may one avoid a “Eurocentric” view or “export model” of international social work?
In order to avoid a “Eurocentric” view or “export model,” a social worker must critically examine issues of power within historical, cultural, and political frameworks in all contexts and cultures that are not their own, but particularly those in which there has been a history of colonialism. There are a number of other methods described on pages 399-401.
4. How does an international non-governmental organization (INGO) differ from a non-governmental organization (NGO)? List two international organizations working with child soldiers.
Both NGOs and INGOs are private organizations that pursue activities to relieve suffering, promote the interests of the poor, protect the environment, provide basic social services, or undertake community development. INGOs differ in that they are international in scope and may have offices around the world to deal with specific issues in many countries. Two INGOs working with child soldiers are Human Rights Watch and Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict.
5. The International Council on Social Welfare (ICSW) is an international non-governmental organization operating throughout the world for the cause of social welfare, social justice, and social development. What is meant by the term “social development”?
Social development is associated with the processes of change that lead to improvements in human well-being, social relations, and social institutions that are equitable, sustainable, and compatible with principles of democratic governance and social justice.