Dilemmas of international social work: paradoxical processes in indigenisation, universalism and imperialism

This paper explores current paradoxical processes in international social work concerning the global diffusion of the social work profession’s principles, values and practice methods or approaches. Some criticise these activities on the grounds that they are imperialistic. Others advocate strongly for the indigenisation of social work. Yet others believe in social work’s universality. This paper attempts to stimulate debate on, and promote greater understanding of, and mutual respect for, divergent views on these critical questions. It puts forward the notion that culture is an important consideration that enables indigenisation, retains universals yet avoids imperialism. International social work is on the horns of a three-pronged dilemma. The dilemma arises from the paradoxical directions or contradictory processes surrounding indigenisation, universalism and imperialism in social work. Crosscultural dialogue and exchange is moulding and shaping new forms of social work (indigenisation) while social work is, at the same time, trying to hold onto some form of common identity (universalism). This is taking place at the same time as efforts toward internationalising social work raise the spectre of westernisation and imperialism. Put another way, indigenisation raises challenges for universalisation and the challenges are compounded by international efforts which can quickly become imperialistic depending on what is proposed as ‘universal’ in social work. In this paper, it is suggested that culture can play an important role in enabling indigenisation and retaining universals while avoiding imperialism. The dilemmas raised by Tsang and Yan (2001) in relation to the development of social work in China provide an example of the way in which