PhotoPhilanthropy

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a nongovernmental global network of first responders and humanitarian relief workers, which provides aid to those who have been displaced by war or oppression. Working in 42 countries and with partners around the world, the IRC seeks to bring attention to forgotten or neglected crises and to pressure local governments and international groups to take action, to help and protect refugees, displaced people and other victims of conflict.

In early 2007, the IRC re-launched their emergency relief programs in Colombia. The IRC works in Nariño, a poor province bordering Ecuador with a large indigenous and Afro-Colombian population. The province has been the target of severe violence in recent months by guerrilla and paramilitaries groups operating in the region, and suffers significant civilian displacement, yet receives little national and international assistance for emergency education for out of school, displaced children. The IRC currently provides emergency education and psychosocial assistance to these children, ensuring a protective environment, access to school facilities (including nutrition and water and sanitation), educational materials, tailored emergency education curriculum, and recreational activities.

Education plays a fundamental role in reducing the effects to war-trauma, providing young people with stability and structure during and after emergencies, and helping them develop to their full potential. It also gives youth and adults the knowledge and skills to earn a living, contribute to their family and community, and lead healthier and more productive lives.

As a photographer documenting the lives of internally displaced communities around Colombia, I have encountered few humanitarian organizations like the IRC, which, despite their small operation has direct impact on displaced communities. Inspired by the Colombian IRC team’s heroic efforts and dedication to ensure the basic rights for every child, I helped document their efforts.