The International Rescue Committee praised the increase in international funding included in the outline of the federal budget released today by the Obama administration.
“I join with other leaders of aid agencies in welcoming this overdue investment in smart power” said IRC president George Rupp. “We have seen how a relatively small investment in conflict prevention, humanitarian relief and development can reap great dividends for Americans. The U.S. government’s support for programs that help children grow, learn and thrive and keep families healthy, together and free from harm are among the best ways to demonstrate America’s leadership and promote peace.”
Rupp said the IRC is eager to see allocation details of the budget to be announced in late April. “We want to be sure that there is funding to help failed and fragile states and to respond to neglected humanitarian crises abroad,” he said. “These programs have not fared well in recent years. We want to work with the administration to convince Congress of the value of this aid.”
At the same time that the IRC welcomed the president’s budget outline, the IRC also was sounding the alarm about the system for resettling refugees in the United States and its funding. “The current economic crisis that is affecting many Americans is having a particularly cruel impact on recently arrived refugees,” explained Bob Carey, IRC’s vice president for resettlement policy and advocacy. “The United States has a proud tradition of offering sanctuary to people who have fled persecution or the threat of death in other countries simply because of their religion, ethnicity, or political beliefs. That tradition is now under threat.”
Carey called attention to the government’s expectation that refugees find jobs soon after arriving in the United States. “Refugees are consistently among the hardest working members of our economy,” he said. “But given the economic downturn, we are now seeing that it is taking them longer to find their first jobs, putting in jeopardy their ability to buy food, pay rent and start their new lives.”
Carey expressed hope that the administration would take a fresh look at the entire system for resettling refugees in the United States. “Because several US government agencies are involved, including the State Department and Health and Human Services, we urge the administration to ensure all the offices involved in providing support for refugees get funding needed to address this economic emergency.”
About the International Rescue Committee
A global leader in humanitarian assistance, the International Rescue Committee works in 42 countries offering help and hope to refugees and others uprooted by conflict and oppression. During crises, IRC teams provide lifesaving services and healing programs for children. As emergencies subside, the IRC stays to revive livelihoods and help shattered communities recover and rebuild. The IRC also helps resettle refugees admitted into the United States. A tireless advocate for the most vulnerable, the IRC is committed to restoring hope, dignity and opportunity.
Media Contact
Michael Cowan: tel: 212-551-0957; e-mail: Michael.Cowan@theIRC.org
