Violence against women and girls is a global problem of epidemic proportions. Evidence shows that over one-third of women and girls globally will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. Regardless of where they live, their religion or culture, or what stage of life they are in, each is a target of violence specifically because of her gender and the gender discrimination that persists globally.

Family planning is one of the most life-saving and empowering interventions in health. Yet misguided assumptions are restricting it from the women and girls who need it most.

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

In December 2018, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) completed an assessment in Beni, DRC, with the aim of examining the effects of the EVD outbreak and response on women and girls, and specifically how the outbreak has impacted women and girls’ experience of violence, also considering the pre-existing context of insecurity in which they live.

Millions of girls around the world face discrimination and lack of opportunity. Their voices aren’t always heard or needs considered.

Many Afghan female-identifying women* arrived in New York City with their education and economic goals as part of their resettling journey. This past year in 2022, the IRC in NY’s Education & Learning (E&L) team designed a program for Afghan women.

Progress and challenges in ensuring life-saving services and reducing risks of violence for women and girls in emergencies

A new IRC report brings forward the voices of 852 refugee and displaced women living in some of the most underfunded and forgotten humanitarian crises in 15 African countries to learn how the pandemic and the humanitarian response to it has affected their safety.