International Social Work: Contemporary Debates and Practices

The course introduces the students to key concepts and current theoretical debates in the field of international social work. Through the use of case studies from Asia, Australia/Oceania, Africa, America and Europe, it discusses definitions, forms, and meanings of social work in different multicultural societies around the world. A primary focus is on international social work practice and its ethical challenges, but the course also addresses policies and global dimensions in domestic social work. The students get the opportunity to write their own case study on sustainable approaches to social work in an international setting of their own choice. Throughout the course, the student will develop a conceptual toolbox in order to critically discuss global relations of power, social, economic and environmental justice issues, as well as sustainable, culturally relevant and decolonial approaches to international social work. The course is open to international students and may be opted as a preparatory course for international social practice abroad by Swedish students.