The Coronavirus Crisis and Challenges to Social Development: Global Perspectives

This book provides an overview of the social development and political measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 from the Global North and Global South. It highlights the major social, political, and economic challenges that have been amplified by the pandemic and proposes that social work must become more political to transform societies, global social development efforts, and economic and health systems. The book also offers insights into how countries have responded to the pandemic and provides a platform for neglected and marginalized voices to be heard.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 461 pages
Publication date: 05 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This groundbreaking book makes a significant contribution to academic discussions surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis and its far-reaching effects on societies worldwide. It offers a comprehensive overview of the social development and political measures implemented in both the Global North and Global South to combat the spread of COVID-19. By shedding light on the major social, political, and economic challenges that existed in various contexts before the pandemic and now exacerbated by COVID-19, the book underscores the urgent need for transformative action.

Curiously, this global pandemic has created opportunities for diverse actors across the globe to question and challenge the dominance of the Global North, which is sometimes evident in social work. Drawing from this context, the book proposes that social work must embrace a more political stance at all levels and strive to transform societies, global social development efforts, and economic and health systems.

This contributed volume comprises 38 chapters that explore and analyze ethical, social, sociological, social work, and social development issues, complementing and enriching the existing literature in socio-political, economics, public health, medical ethics, and political science. Through various case studies, readers gain valuable insights into how countries have responded to the pandemic and the devastating impact it has had on countries across different regions of the world. Moreover, the book provides a platform for the voices of neglected and marginalized groups, such as indigenous populations, the poor, and oppressed, to be heard and amplified.

The chapters in this book are organized into three main themes, each corresponding to research on the COVID-19 pandemic and social work in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and North America:

Analysis: Social Issues and the COVID-19 Pandemic
This section delves into the ethical, social, and sociological implications of the COVID-19 crisis, examining how it has exacerbated existing social inequalities, challenged social cohesion, and impacted the mental health of individuals and communities. It also explores the role of social work in responding to the pandemic, including the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital divide, the need for community engagement, and the importance of addressing systemic racism and discrimination.

Policy Responses and Social Work Practice
This theme focuses on the policy responses to the COVID-19 crisis, including the measures implemented by governments, international organizations, and social workers themselves. It examines the effectiveness of these responses in addressing the social and economic needs of vulnerable populations, such as the poor, marginalized communities, and frontline workers. It also explores the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by social workers in implementing these policies, such as balancing the need for public health measures with the rights and dignity of individuals.

Social Work Education and Training
This theme examines the role of social work education and training in preparing social workers for the challenges of the COVID-19 era. It explores the need for interdisciplinary approaches, the integration of technology, and the development of resilience and adaptability in social work practice. It also highlights the importance of social work education in promoting social justice, equity, and inclusion and in addressing the root causes of social problems.

In conclusion, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and social workers alike. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the ethical, social, and political dimensions of the COVID-19 crisis and offers insightful perspectives on the role of social work in responding to and shaping the future of societies affected by the pandemic. By highlighting the need for transformative action and promoting the voices of marginalized groups, this book contributes to the ongoing efforts to build more resilient, inclusive, and equitable societies.

Weight: 920g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030846800
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022