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.

On a return visit to the Greek island of Lesbos, which he first visited in November 2015, Mandy Patinkin met with refugees stranded at Kara Tepe who are caught in a desperate and lengthy limbo as they wait to know the fate of their asylum claims. Learn more about refugees in Europe.

Meet the Americans who are giving a warm welcome to refugees uprooted by conflict and violence, and helping families start anew in the United States.