International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The programme implemented by International Rescue Committee (IRC) is aimed at empowering communities to mobilize internal and external resources in order to improve their living conditions by addressing key community-identified socio-economic needs in the areas of social infrastructure and agriculture. The total value of this programme is $1,461,702. The programme duration is 2 years.


The programme will benefit approximately 160,000 people. Social Infrastructure Microprojects are identified, developed and implemented by local communities. Participatory methodology and at least 25% community “contribution” assure ownership and encourage sustainability. Below are the main principles of the community mobilization process:

• Empowered communities with new skills sets and access to resources,
• Positive working relationships between communities and local authorities,
• Ownership by community members in the development and management of projects for their communities,
• Rehabilitated and working physical infrastructure,
• Change in mindset of communities

The programme is covering communities along the pipeline route in the Hajigabul, Kurdemir, Ujar, Agdash districts and selected towns in the Yevlakh district, including the town of Yevlakh itself. The programme is implemented in close cooperation with local municipalities to develop their capacity and create productive partnerships between communities and local government. The programme operations is managed from a Field Office in Kurdamir staffed by an experienced team comprised of Azerbaijan nationals. A Development Resource Center will be established in Yevlakh.

IRC is working with national NGO partners - Agro Information Center (AIM), Toward Civil Society – Mulki Cemiyyete Dogru (MCD) and Ganja Business Group (GBG).

The agricultural component of the programme is implemented through AIM, who helps communities to improve their agricultural production through the development of a network of agriculture extension agents who will provide vital technical assistance to farmers on a fee for service basis.

The national NGO MCD is conducting trainings for municipal councillors. Councillors receive information on management, civic government and their rights and responsibilities. At least 20 municipal councils in the target communities shall contribute to the planning and implementation of micro-projects in cash or kind.

The national NGO GBG is providing business development services for small entrepreneurs and future entrepreneurs according to their needs.

IRC is a leading US-based non-sectarian, voluntary organization providing relief, protection and resettlement services to people fleeing racial, religious and ethnic persecution, as well as those uprooted by war and violence. IRC is currently providing assistance to people in 26 countries worldwide and has been active in Azerbaijan since 1994.

To get an update on the programme please refer to the “Latest News” Section.