Recontextualizing Social Work in a Globalized World: Lessons From the Pacific

As the professional agenda of social work continues to spread globally, certain voices are privileged in the construction of what constitutes valid social work practice and education. Within the South Pacific Islands, the ongoing colonial legacy, engagement with foreign aid, and influence of globalization contribute to an environment where Western models of social work may supersede or drown out efforts to integrate models of Western and non-Western practice. Despite the trend to adopt Western models of practice, the neo-liberal prerogative underpinning many such approaches fails to address issues of social and ecological injustice. In response, Pacific constructions of social work encourage a more relational and collaborative model of practice with a focus on social connection rather than ‘outcome'. Ultimately, in the context of increasing globalization, the social work profession should foster a rich and diverse understanding of social work practice by embracing indigenous and localized understandings of research, education, and practice.