Vision, Courage and Determination: A Century of Cross-Border Social Work !

We are very thrilled to announce the launch of our book “Vision, Courage, and Determination: A Century of Cross-Border Social Work.” This publication offers a compelling look at our history and impact over the past century, from our daring beginnings till today, emphasizing ISS role in promoting cross-border social work and advocating for vulnerable populations, particularly children and families in migration.

This book is the result of a concerted effort and fruitful collaboration among ISS staff worldwide, gathering their immense expertise, reflections, thoughts, and ambitions leading the International Social Service through better and worse!

The illustrations by Cartooning For Peace laureate Mr Hani Abbas add a unique touch, we hope you will find as outstanding we meant it to be.

We invite you to purchase your personal copy. Your support through this book — whether in e-book or print — enables us to pursue our mission to protect and care for families and children.

Synopsis of book:

Discover the remarkable 100-year journey of the International Social Service (ISS) in this commemorative book.  This book outlines how ISS was founded in response to the mass migration movements and social disruptions witnessed in the aftermath of the First World War.

Dedicated to facilitating the reunification of families separated by borders, ISS pioneered innovative approaches and collaborative efforts to address the complex needs of migrants. The organisation’s commitment to international cooperation and social justice is highlighted through its involvement in drafting key international declarations and conventions, such as the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1924, the 1959 Declaration, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.

ISS’s emphasis on international casework practice and the development of a global network of professionals has enabled the organisation to navigate diverse cultural contexts and legal frameworks effectively. Through training programs, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts, ISS has influenced international social work practices and policy development, emphasising the importance of prioritising the best interests of children in all actions concerning them.

This book explores how ISS’s collaboration with various actors, including government authorities, United Nations agencies, and civil society organisations, has bolstered its impact in addressing complex family conflicts and child protection issues across borders. Despite challenges such as funding instability and geopolitical shifts, ISS has maintained a strong and sustained commitment to cooperation and social intervention, positioning itself as a key player in the field of international social work.

The narrative delves into ISS’s contributions during critical moments in history, such as the Second World War, where the organisation’s resilience and determination to uphold its values of neutrality and non-discrimination were demonstrated. Despite the upheavals of wartime, ISS continued to support families and individuals in migration crises, underscoring its resolute dedication to cooperation and human rights.

Overall, this publication provides a comprehensive overview of ISS’s evolution, achievements, and ongoing efforts to promote international collaboration, social justice, and the well-being of vulnerable populations. Through its century-long legacy of cooperation and advocacy, ISS remains a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in the realm of cross-border social work and child protection.