Social Work Profession and Disaster Risk Reduction in Pakistan

Abstract

There is a long history of Social Work, helping the weaker sections of society and those who are affected by disasters - natural or man-made. Historical records reveal that social workers have been part of the disaster relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts because they are equipped with the required knowledge and skills. The purpose of this study is to get acquaintance about the need and importance of social work profession in disaster risk reduction in Pakistan. In addition, it also identifies the responsibilities of professional social worker in disaster mitigation and management. This study concludes that Pakistan, due to its geographical and climatic conditions is faced with disasters like earthquake, floods, windstorms, avalanches, cyclones, storms, droughts, landslides, tsunamis and epidemics. Therefore, social workers have to play an effective role in pre and post disaster period. The study recommends that social workers should make their theoretical base strong by equipping themselves with up-dated knowledge, skills and use of the new techniques of social work for the rehabilitation of individuals, groups and communities affected by the disasters.