"Remember your humanity and forget the rest."

-Bertrand Russell-

As popular opinion becomes more and more skewed towards cynical ideas regarding the state of American affairs on a domestic level, many are also drifting toward isolationism. One of the best examples of this growing suspicion about involving America in international problems is the ongoing controversy regarding the civil war in Syria. Many critics questioned the presumption of the US government to consider spending government resources on a foreign intervention when there are so many other domestic issues in need of attention. The controversy was perhaps summed up best in this meme, which began circulating last summer:

Social workers often struggle with the indefinite limitations involved in making macro level change, and this is especially true when one considers global social issues. Although the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights reflects many of the values also upheld by the NASW Code of Ethics, it is difficult to conceptualize of how social workers can forward the ideals of social justice through international interventions. However, one of the most effective interventions social workers can use is helping to build and influence international organizations and raise awareness.

International Organizations

The International Federation of Social Workers, founded in 1928, has taken up the responsibility of serving as a consultant for many other international organizations, including UNICEF and WHO. Their stated mission is to: "promote social work to forward social development, advocate for social justice globally, and facilitate international cooperation."IFSW promotes best practice models of service delivery on a micro level, supports anti-war movements, and identifies important contemporary issues within the profession.

The IFSW is an important resource for social workers who are considering global issues and how to apply social work principles to international problems. In addition, globalization has fundamentally changed the way ideas and inventions pass between borders.

Capitalist Invasions
Globalization also affects many domestic issues. For example, the international economy has improved living conditions for many populations, and made many resources more accessible for people in need. However, globalization also has a profound and often destructive impact on many cultures and economies. Part of being a socially conscious social worker is reflecting on the wider applications for social justice theories and critiquing the pros and cons of a globalized economic system. Therefore, we must consider the power dynamics existing between industrialized countries like the US and developing nations.


Even while the wealth gap widens in the US, many developing nations are experiencing economic booms and increasing levels of economic and educational attainment. Increasing wealth has led to huge population and cultural shifts, but these developments are dependent on promoting environmentally destructive ideals, consumerism, and violent competitions for resources. While it may be overwhelming to consider international issues while so many difficult domestic problems are worsening or remain unresolved, it is important to consider the ideals that social workers worldwide have committed to emphasizing and supporting. Therefore, part of taking a holistic approach to problems is considering the global implications for micro level changes and behaviors and promoting a form of social justice that rejects isolationism.