Title: IRC: International Rescue Committee

Source/Sponsoring Agency: International Rescue Committee

URL: http://www.theirc.org/

Date Checked: 1/24/2008      Status: Active

Date Annotated: 1/23/2008

Topics: Human Rights Law; Economics

Other keywords: Humanitarian aid; Development

Contents: Since its founding in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) has provided hope and humanitarian aid to refugees and other victims of oppression and violent conflict around the world. It is currently active in 25 countries assisting in the aftermath of natural disasters and armed conflict. “Who We Are” identifies directors and officers, gives contact information, and posts complete financial statements for the past two years. Indeed, every page of the website highlights IRC’s high charity rankings for efficient use of funds and requests donations. “What We Do” describes assisting in areas such as Anti-trafficking, Children, Economic Recovery and Development, Health, and Immigration Assistance. Each area of assistance includes several specific programs. For example, “Children” includes youth programs, separated children, child soldiers, and education. “How You Can Help” emphasizes advocacy to Congress on IRC target issues. Some programs have a Research Library link to websites and documents (project descriptions, lectures, briefings, and papers). The “News from the Field” section is of use to researchers looking for information on current events, with articles from around the world, staff blogs, a list of issues in focus, a “crisis watch,” and “hot zones.” A multimedia section offers podcasts, photo essays, videos, RSS feeds, and an e-newsletter to keep current on humanitarian efforts. The IRC site is complex and requires drilling down to find specifics. The site does a very good job in educating the world about its role and in highlighting important global issues.

Author of Annotation: J. Callihan