Creating SPACE

A Conceptual Framework for Rights-Based International Social Work and Social Development

Authors

  • Marciana L. Popescu Fordham University
  • Dana Alonzo Fordham University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/25090

Keywords:

Capacity building; empowerment; international social work; human rights; international social development; training of trainers.

Abstract

Escalating conflicts, climate change, rising inequality, a global pandemic: Complex emergencies are leading to a reconfiguration of the world as we know it. Rapid flow of information allows increased visibility and understanding of the impact of these crises on the most vulnerable. Yet at the same time, marginalized communities are rendered invisible, and their fundamental human rights are being erased. In such contexts, providing a framework that engages communities and ensures that they are at the core of any capacity building endeavor is an important professional mandate for international social work and social development. This paper introduces the Strengths and Participation to Accomplish Capacity and Empowerment (SPACE) conceptual framework for capacity building and community engagement in international social work practice. This conceptual framework builds on both the strengths perspective and empowerment theories, and promotes a rights-based approach for international social work and social development. SPACE was first used to design and implement a training-of-trainers program in two communities in Guatemala. The training’s effectiveness in building capacity was evidenced by the impactful networks strengthened or developed as a result of the training in developing COVID-related responses. Further applications of this framework can improve international social work practice and advance rights-based approaches to sustainable development.

Author Biography

Marciana L. Popescu, Fordham University

Currently working as an associate professor at Fordham University, Graduate School of Social Service, New York (2006 to present), Dr. Marciana Popescu is actively involved in internationalizing the curriculum and promoting a human rights framework of international development. For the past three years she served as a member of the Global Service committee at Fordham University. Dr. Popescu’s international expertise includes integrating a study abroad component to the International Development course curriculum – with four study abroad tours to the Dominican Republic and Haiti (2008-2010); 5 years as the director of the MSA program in Community and International Development, at Andrews University, Michigan (2001-2006), 5 years serving as a UNICEF consultant in Romania; as well as active involvement and collaboration with international agencies (World Bank, UNDP, UNICEF) and the Romanian government in evaluation social services in post-Communist Romania (1998-200). Holding a PhD in Sociology/Comparative Policy from the University of Bucharest, an MSW from Tulane University and an MA in Social Policy from the University of Bucharest, Dr. Popescu's academic career includes research and teaching in Romania (University of Bucharest, 1995-2000), England, Sweden, Holland, the United States, Ukraine, and Japan. She also served as the academic site advisor for the Italy site/MSA-IDP program, Andrews University (2001-2006). Her research interests include international social development and capacity building; human rights and international development; faith-based organizations and the impact of federal funding on capacity building; intimate partner violence in faith communities; and immigrant women and intimate partner violence.

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2022-02-26

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