ABSTRACT
International collaboration requires that experts understand local contexts in order to successfully transfer knowledge. This chapter describes the development of social work as an emerging profession in the rapidly changing economic context of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and explores the role international collaboration has played in its development. International collaboration historically played a role in the growth of various sectors in Vietnam including health, business, economics, computer science, and engineering. The chapter examines how international collaboration through information/knowledge transfer, capacity building, consulting, and resource provision has played a role in the development of social work in Vietnam. Communication, resources, and personal characteristics of those involved also contribute to the success of international collaboration. Challenges to international collaboration can include communication problems due to inadequate resources, limited infrastructure, differences in language, time zones, cost, and work styles.
