The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is partnering with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to engage the hospitality sector in helping people affected by humanitarian crises and disasters.

With almost 100 million people who are currently forcibly displaced worldwide, the partnership will see both organisations act in close collaboration to make the world’s hospitality industry aware of how they can work with and support refugee communities. From facilitating skills training and offering employment, to providing temporary accommodation to refugees as they resettle to the new communities they will call home, there are multiple ways in which organisations can make a difference.

By partnering, the IRC can engage with the Alliance’s global network, representing over 50,000 properties and 7 million rooms globally. The Alliance’s members include world-leading companies who will be encouraged to participate in the IRC’s programmes and activities. In locations affected by humanitarian catastrophes, the local hospitality sector will be encouraged by the Alliance to identify ways in which they can support and help raise awareness of the IRC’s emergency response and recovery work with displaced communities.

The IRC will have access to specific and beneficial Alliance tools and resources, such as its online portal for refugees. The platform, Hospitality Unite, is backed by the Alliance and was launched last year to support Ukrainian refugees looking for hospitality work throughout Europe. Disaster relief agencies such as the IRC will be able to share this support mechanism with its clients who are interested in building Hospitality careers.

We are delighted the IRC has become a partner and the Alliance looks forward to encouraging the hospitality sector to help refugees and communities supporting refugees. Here at the Alliance, we aim to address key challenges affecting the planet and its people, which sadly includes humanitarian disasters. This partnership will help us accelerate a responsible hospitality that gives back. Sustainable Hospitality Alliance CEO, Glenn Mandziuk
With more people displaced by conflict and crises around the world than any other time in recent history, bold commitments are needed from across sectors to match the scale of today’s humanitarian needs. We are proud to partner with leading brands in the travel and hospitality sector, who are important employers of refugees and committed to responding to global issues. Our partnership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance will enable the IRC to continue supporting resettlement efforts and welcome refugees into their new communities worldwide. Laura Kyrke Smith, Executive Director, IRC, UK

About IRC

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people affected by humanitarian crises and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. IRC delivers lasting impact by helping communities experiencing displacement to reclaim their safety, health, education, economic wellbeing, and the agency to make decisions that affect their lives and futures. Founded in 1933, the IRC now works in over 40 countries across the globe. IRC is proud to partner with leading brands and coalitions in the travel and hospitality sector, who are committed to responding to global issues. For more information, please visit www.rescue.org.

About the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance brings together engaged hospitality companies and the wider hospitality value chain, along with strategic partners, to address key challenges affecting the planet, people and places around the world.

Through their strategic initiatives and global networks, they develop practical programmes and resources to create a prosperous and responsible hospitality sector that gives back to the destination more than it takes.

Their members represent over 50,000 hotels spanning 270 brands – totalling over 7 million rooms – and include world-leading companies including Accor, Choice Hotels International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, as well as regional brands. Their network also includes other parts of the hospitality value chain, including owners, investors, suppliers, and other partners to further drive joined up action on sustainability, and accelerate the industry on the path to Net Positive Hospitality.

Emily McLeish
Senior Brand and Marcomms Manager
Sustainable Hospitality Alliance