Global responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have collided with long-standing sexual and reproductive health inequities. While COVID-19 has had a significant, and in some cases devastating, impact on health systems around the world, studies show that people whose human rights are least protected—such as refugees, displaced peoples, and conflict-affected populations—are the ones who suffer the most. The IRC’s work in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh—home to the world’s largest refugee settlement—inevitably became more challenging during COVID-19. This assessment explores the intersecting impacts of the pandemic on the demand, access, and delivery of SRH services and protective measures. It incorporates the perspectives of women, girls, and boys from Rohingya and host communities, as well as service providers (e.g., frontline health workers, doctors, midwives, etc.) and other key informants (e.g., local officials, NGO staff, etc.). It was also intended as a learning exercise, so that SRH services can be more accessible and prioritized during future public health emergencies.

The IRC finds conflict-affected countries need $1.7B to limit potential hunger brought on by COVID-19, $760M needed in high refugee-hosting developing countries.

IRC in San Diego's COVID-19 resource archives.

A look into the IRC in NY's work amidst COVID-19 conditions.

The coronavirus struck at a time when more people around the world are displaced by war and crisis than ever before. They, along with people living in conflict zones, will be among the hardest hit by the pandemic.  We asked refugees and frontline International Rescue Committee staff what gives them hope as the world confronts COVID-19. Watch their moving responses. 

Women and girls’ perspectives on COVID-19 impacts on sexual and reproductive health and safety

The past year has presented many challenges for our community, but it’s also shown us the tremendous power we have when we come together as neighbors to support one another. Read about how the IRC - with help from our partners and supporters - has helped newcomer families cope with the health, social, educational, and economic impacts of COVID-19.

Nine years of conflict have devastated Syria's health system, which now must face the threat of COVID-19. Hear from our doctors in the northeast about how they continue to serve displaced families at our health clinics—safely.

Ahlan Simsim, created by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Sesame Workshop, is an early childhood development program that gives millions of refugee and displaced children and their families in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq the support they need to cope with crises and build a brighter future. The program has adapted to COVID-19 by providing caregivers with learning activities for their children via WhatsApp.

A list of food resources available for community members in need during the COVID-19 outbreak.