Academic Research and Initiatives

The International Rescue Committee has committed to the development of the science and practice of humanitarian assistance by undertaking a variety of research and academic activities.  Over the past seven years, IRC’s health staff has published over 20 scientific papers, editorials, letters and abstracts in peer-reviewed journals. 

The IRC has also contributed significantly to the development of a new Gender Based Violence Tools Manual in collaboration with the Reproductive Health Response in Crisis (RHRC) Consortium.

The Health Unit conceptualized and initiated the development of two important new courses: HIV/AIDS for Humanitarian Workers (in collaboration with the RHRC) and Fundamentals of Program Management in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and New York University.    

Nationwide Mortality Surveys in the Democratic Republic of Congo

A series of landmark and peer-reviewed studies by the IRC and some of the world’s leading epidemiologists conclude that an estimated 5.4 million people died from conflict-related causes in Congo since 1998. The vast majority were not killed in combat. Most tragically died from malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition--easily preventable and treatable conditions when people have access to health care and nutritious food.

Post-Tsunami Rapid Health Assessment in Indonesia

IRC was one of the first and only international humanitarian organization to collect quality data following the December 2004 tsunami. IRC’s technical experts were available on the ground days after the disaster struck collecting data and ensuring that it was done correctly and quickly. In the hard-hit town of Calang, for example, a rapid assessment study demonstrated that over 85% of children had suffered from diarrhea, leading to the immediate prioritization of hygiene, water, and sanitation services.