Meet Mustafa Hassan, an International Rescue Committee aid worker named by Time magazine as one of the world’s 100 most influential people for his tireless efforts to protect the youngest victims of Syria’s civil war. Read Mustafa's story

In interviews recorded during 2012, six former Secretaries of State speak out on why it is important for the United States to offer support to refugees fleeing war and persecution: James A. Baker III (served 1989-1992), Dr. Madeleine K. Albright (1997-2001), General Colin L. Powell USA (Ret.) (2001-2005), George Shultz (1982-1989), Dr. Condoleezza Rice (2005-2009), Dr. Henry A. Kissinger (1973-1977)

From emergency response through post-conflict development work, in a great variety of roles around the world, the International Rescue Committee's 8,000-plus staff is a force for humanity and hope. If you're skilled and passionate, we'd like to add your energy to ours.

Since early June, tens of thousands of Iraqis have fled Islamic State militants who have targeted religious minorities in a violent rampage across northwestern Iraq. Thousands remain in need of food, water, shelter and safety. Last month, the militants attacked one of Iraq’s oldest minorities, the Yazidi people of Sinjar.

Last year, the Governor of Texas declared that the state would no longer accept Syrian refugees, citing security concerns after the horrific attacks in Paris. The state demanded that the International Rescue Committee halt its resettlement programs or face a lawsuit. A federal judge on June 16, 2016 dismissed the lawsuit that would have banned refugee resettlement in Texas.

Mawa was torn away from his family by Sudan’s civil war. After a decade apart, he was finally able reunite with his children with the help of the International Rescue Committee in Baltimore. 

Over 60 million people around the world are now displaced from their homes, having been forced to flee from war, persecution and disaster. Only a lucky few are given the chance to resettle in a third country. The United States and the IRC offer refugees sanctuary and the opportunity to build a new home for themselves and their families.

David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, thanks IRC volunteers with a special video message.

In September, 2014, IRC Voice and opera singer Danielle de Niese visited IRC's WEKEZA Education Program in Tanzania. The program uses education to reduce the exploitation of child labor.

Actress and acitivist Piper Perabo recently visited the Greek island of Lesbos where the International Rescue Committee is providing critical aid for up to 4,000 refugees fleeing from war-torn countries like Syria and Afghanistan. Many have been on the road for 20-30 days, hoping for safety and to live in peace. Read Piper's reflections from Greece.