Global Child Welfare and Well-Being

Across the world, children are the most vulnerable population. The threats to them may vary, but wherever one looks, children are endangered and exploited. Susan Mapp examines threats to child well-being globally, investigating violations of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in countries both in the Global North and the Global South. Some problems are well known, such as child trafficking and child soldiers, while others are less well known, including unethical adoption practices and fistulas. No other book approaches this vital topic in such a comprehensive yet tightly structured way, using an established, agreed-upon set of principles to show how things stand now, what remains to be accomplished, and examples of how these problems might be resolved. NGOs and government branches must collaborate increasingly with their counterparts from other countries if they are to allow children to achieve their adult potential. This text promises to inform the reader about these issues and offer paths forward to a better future.


"This thoroughly researched and well written volume provides an excellent account of the situation of children around the world. The author blends up-to-date data on problems facing children with information on successful interventions and an agenda for future action. An excellent choice for anyone interested in child welfare or global social issues."

--Lynne M. Healy, PhD, Professor of Social Work and Director of the Center for International Social Work Studies, University of Connecticut

"This is a well documented manifesto by Susan Mapp on the major issues that affect the lives and futures of the children of our world. Grounded by the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, Mapp explores each of these issues chapter by chapter, documenting their gravity and providing examples of positive change through practice, policy, and social advocacy. She exhorts us to work-individually and collectively-towards a world where children can realize their rights and reach their full potential."

--Robin Sakina Mama, PhD, Professor and Dean, School of Social Work, Monmouth University

"This book provides numerous examples of the challenges of implementing laws and standards that emanate from international governmental organisations (IGOs). This will be helpful for academics or students wanting an introduction to global social policy as it affects children, although IGOs besides the UN receive scant attention." -- British Journal of Social Work