A Call for Social Work Students in Mine Action

Authors

  • Ethan Haymovitz Wichita State University
  • Cameron Paine-Thaler Wichita State University

Keywords:

Social Work, Social Work Education, Social Work Field Education, International Social Work, Curriculum Design, Landmines, Explosive Remnants of War, Rehabilitation, Mine Risk Education

Abstract

For too many, physical and psychological trauma are the unfortunate consequences of living in post-
conflict regions where landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) continue to litter roads,
farmland, and other critical infrastructure. Master’s level social work students can be engaged on
micro, mezzo, and macro levels to assist such victims of conflict by engaging in mine action sector
activities like psychosocial rehabilitation, mine risk education (MRE), and advocacy efforts to
mitigate the effects and eliminate the use of ERW. We propose a field education plan in which
social work students can engage in this vital work through international fieldwork placements. Such
activities benefit international students, local communities and organizations, and the cause they
serve. With fresh ideas and great enthusiasm, students have the potential to not only influence the
course of the global crisis of landmines and ERW, but to reap the professional and personal rewards
of participating
in the international mine action sector.

Author Biographies

  • Ethan Haymovitz, Wichita State University
    Ethan Haymovitz worked in resource mobilization at the United Nations Mine Action Service and at the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission before returning to doctoral study in social work leadership at Millersville and Kutztown Universities, where he now researches the effect of school ecosystems on bullying and develops preventive programs. He studied advanced generalist practice and programming and social research methods at Columbia University School of Social Work, and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Vassar College.
  • Cameron Paine-Thaler, Wichita State University


    Cameron Paine-Thaler, LMSW, is currently the Global Partnerships Manager at Girl Rising, a global
    campaign for girls' education. Prior to joining Girl Rising, Cameron graduated with a Masters in
    Social Work from Columbia University, where she studied Advanced Generalist Practice and
    Programming in contemporary social issues. Cameron has worked for a number of New York and
    international non- profit organizations in the health, mental health, and development fields.
    Cameron holds a B.A. in
    Psychology from The New School University and is originally from Seattle, Washington.

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Published

2016-10-24

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2016)

Section

Articles