Ethiopia

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Sexual and reproductive health is among IRC’s main health priorities and family planning acknowledged as a number one focus of their efforts. IRC is committed to increasing the availability of modern contraception, and in particular widely neglected long-term methods to prevent women from unwanted pregnancies and often life-threatening medical complications.

Administration of Refugee and Returnee Affairs (ARRA) of Ethiopia will provide LNG IUS service (with IRC supervision) at 8 refugee settings. ARRA is governmental agency mandated to provide clinical health services at refugee camps among other tasks. Long term contraceptives have not been introduced to most of the refugee camps in Ethiopia and demand for them remains to be poor. IRC health team in the refugees will work towards demand creation for LNG IUS and those that want to receive the services will be registered and submitted to ARRA Health Centers. Clients that show interest and register will receive the service. A total of 200 LNG IUS have been provided to IRC Ethiopia starting in 2013.