Home > What We Do > Advocating Change > Speaking Out Around the World
With operations in 42 countries and offices in 24 cities across the United States, the IRC is well-placed to report on the very real challenges and threats faced by refugees, the displaced, and other victims of conflict, and to recommend actions to policy-makers.
IRC staff members meet with government and UN officials to seek policy changes to benefit affected communities in all the countries where the IRC works. Visiting delegations of journalists and parliamentarians often check in with IRC field staff to learn what’s really going on.
Washington, D.C.: The IRC office in Washington DC maintains relations with U.S. government offices that support some of the IRC's programs including the US Agency for International Development and the Population, Migration & Refugee Bureau in the State Department. The IRC meets regularly with decision-makers on both sides of the political aisle to raise issues of concern and advocate for change. Contact information >
New York: IRC representatives meet with UN officials and mission diplomats to the UN to raise awareness about advocacy priorities and push for action. IRC’s Communications staff supports these efforts by issuing press releases and facilitating contact with the media.
London: IRC-UK conducts its advocacy work within Her Majesty’s Government and in Parliament. The IRC-UK office is also involved in securing funding support from the UK government and other European donors.
Geneva: IRC is a leading non-governmental partner of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Geneva. IRC manages the SURGE program to recruit and deploy UNHCR protection specialists in the field and dialogue on a range of issues with UNHCR and other international organizations.
Brussels: IRC’s representative in Brussels follows discussions at offices of the European Union, European Community Humanitarian Office, and Europeaid cooperation office and the European Parliament. The Brussels office is also engaged in securing grants from European donors.
IRC’s U.S. Resettlement Offices: The IRC’s domestic refugee resettlement offices advocate with US Congress both in Washington DC and in their home cities. IRC offices reach out to local media and the general public to gain support for refugees to become productive members of their new communities.
International Programs: IRC field staff speak up on behalf of the people we serve throughout the world. They work with local authorities to assure that refugees’ protection and basic needs are met. IRC also advises governments in emergencies, helps design health and social welfare programs, and assists the transition to stable society.
Partner Organizations: IRC joins with other non-governmental organizations in coalitions and alliances to collaborate on specific policy and humanitarian issues. IRC’s partners include the Women’s Commission for Refugee Women and Children, Refugees International, and the International Crisis Group.
