The IRC in Afghanistan

Photo: Peter Biro/IRC

 In 1980, the International Rescue Committe (IRC) began by providing emergency medical relief to Afghan refugees fleeing to Pakistan to escape the Soviet invasion. We expanded our rehabilitation work in 1988, preparing for the return of refugees from neighboring countries. The IRC then continued to help Afghans during the Taliban regime, its collapse, and following Afghanistan’s first elections in 2005.

We continue to focus on providing returning refugees with shelter, water and sanitation,and on restoring the nation’s health, infrastructure and economy. Our education support is a key part of these comprehensive programs to renew dignity and self-reliance for the Afghan people.

Smart Development

Ten years after the U.S.- led invasion of Afghanistan, headlines suggest that aid for development in one of the world's poorest and most conflict-ridden countries has been wasted. Now, the IRC and five other top international aid agencies reveal how it can be done well by adhering to principles of "smart development." The six groups have deep experience in the country. In the last year alone they provided help and services to more than ten million Afghans across more than 2/3 of the sprawling nation.

Learn more about the concept and the key proposals:

- White Paper: Being Smart About Development in Afghanistan

- Video (with transcript): Watch the IRC's Anne Richard, who leads our government relations and advocacy efforts, as she promotes Smart Development before a key Congressional commission

- Written Testimony: Genuine Partnership: Building Strong Foundations for Afghanistan’s Future