IASSW stands with social workers in China
The novel coronavirus outbreak alerts the global community and ignites humanity towards affected areas at the beginning of the new decade. As of February 11, 2020, over 40,000 people infected along with the potential spread among the global community. International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) stands with social workers in China in solidarity who fight courageously against the outbreak and contain the wider spread to other regions.
The Chair of Sustainability, Climate Change, Disaster Intervention Committee of IASSW, Prof. Lena Dominelli is impressed by “the hard work and dedication shown by our colleagues [social workers] in China working through the Chinese Association of Social Work Education to support and provide practical help to people affected by the novel coronavirus”. With the joint effort from the global social work community on disaster management, social workers and educators in China must win the battle soon. Salute to the social workers and IASSW members who are supporting these endeavours in various ways!
‘The novel corona virus (Covid-19) has brought out examples of heroism, commitment, dedication, and hard work among China’s populace and its caring professionals as they seek to contain the spread of the virus not only within China, but also the rest of the world. Despite the deleterious impact Covid-19 has had on the life and well-being of the Chinese people and its economic progress, their endeavours are impressive. They remain undaunted by the hardships and the sacrifices that they have to make to help others and protect themselves so that they can carry on working. They form the unsung heroes of today, striving to avoid a global pandemic. Among these heroes are many social work educators working in their local communities and being supported by the China Association of Social Work Education (CASWE). Also, helping from the sidelines are the friends of China who offer various forms of support. These helpers include colleagues within the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW).
IASSW praises their achievements and stands in solidarity with CASWE and the Chinese people and others fighting to stave off this health crisis. IASSW stands in solidarity with you and hopes that by working together, social work educators can make significant contributions to keeping Covid-19 at bay.’
Professor Lena Dominelli
Chair, IASSW’s Disaster Interventions, Climate Change and Sustainability Committee
