Social work will be key to repairing human, social and environmental damage of Ukrainian war
Published by Professional Social Work magazine, 3 March, 2022
Social workers across Europe will “play a key part” in helping people affected by the war in Ukraine, the British Association of Social Workers has said.
The association warned the scale of civilian casualties is likely to be high with professionals having to potentially provide support for as many as 10 million people fleeing the conflict zone.
In a statement on the crisis, BASW said: “War has a devasting impact on innocent people who pay the price of aggression with their lives, their homes, and their safety.
“This military conflict directly impacts the people of Ukraine, but it will have wider repercussions.
“People may be displaced and will need to seek refuge in other countries as a result. Social workers across Europe will also play a key part of supporting people in rebuilding their lives.”
BASW said support was also needed for social workers and other professionals on the ground in Ukraine.
“We ask for vital support for those working in social work, health and welfare services in Ukraine, many of whom will undoubtedly strive to keep humanitarian services available and support people least able to protect themselves during the conflict and its aftermath.”
The association added: “Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, including social work colleagues in Ukraine, those in health and welfare services, and all those who have loved ones in Ukraine who will be understandably deeply worried.”
The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) warned of the huge human, social and environmental costs of the war.
It said: “Ukraine will result in death, destruction, more human rights abuses, large-scale refugee movements, and the traumatisation of people.
“Historically we have seen that land disputes on this international scale, apparently fuelled by the need for power and control, affect all our shared futures.
“A conflict of this proportion will also result in driving higher prices of key commodities throughout the world contributing to the increasing levels of poverty and exacerbating the climate change agenda. This affects everybody worldwide.”
The IFSW said the skill and experience of social workers in resolving conflicts and bringing communities together would be needed.
“Our profession’s experience includes supporting civil society to influence peacebuilding in Northern Ireland, El Salvador, Rwanda, East Timor, and many other places.
“We have learnt that a key ingredient in creating the space for people to listen to each other, overcoming people’s insecurity, and equipping them with confidence to re-establish trust, the basis of all good human relationships.”
PSW and BASW are keen to give voice to social workers during the Ukraine war. To find out how you can contribute your thoughts, feelings and reflections click here