Group of Interest in International Issues

Introduction: In 2015 was created the Group of Interest in International Issues (GIII). This group is part of the Portuguese Association of Occupational Therapists (PAOT) and intends to cooperate with it on international... [ view full abstract ]

Introduction:
In 2015 was created the Group of Interest in International Issues (GIII). This group is part of the Portuguese Association of Occupational Therapists (PAOT) and intends to cooperate with it on international matters. The goals of this group are gathering information about the professional practice abroad, prepare and share international studies, translate documents of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT), implement seminars with international key-note speakers and, above all, cooperate with the board of PAOT in all matters related to international topics.

Methodology:
The GIII is compound of full or candidate members of PAOT which, to belong to this group, are voluntary and free of charge. Works through bimonthly meetings, attended in person or by Skype. The projects, to be implemented by the group, are presented and selected from its members. Once adopted, the tasks are distributed between the members of the group. The results of the projects are discussed in the group and then presented to the board of PAOT. The board of the PAOT decides how they will be shared with the members of the association.

Conclusion:
The group is currently on its fourth working meeting. The works have been creating greater cohesion within the group, promoting the knowledge on international documents and materials, facilitating the dissemination of information to the members of PAOT and, above all, supporting the work of the board of PAOT on international issues. The group is also responsible for studying issues regarding the refugees.