In New York City, the International Rescue Committee announced during World Immunization Week 2026 that it has delivered more than 30 million vaccine doses in fragile and conflict-affected settings. Working with partners under the REACH programme, funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the initiative has reached over one million “zero-dose” children who had never received any vaccination.
Since its launch in 2022, the REACH programme has operated across several high-risk countries, including Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia. It focuses on delivering both routine and catch-up immunization in areas affected by conflict and disasters, often where national health services have limited reach. By working with local partners and adapting delivery methods to challenging environments, the programme has been able to access communities previously considered unreachable.
The initiative highlights the ongoing global inequality in immunization coverage. Millions of children remain unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, particularly in fragile settings where healthcare access is limited and mortality risks are significantly higher. Immunization is recognized as one of the most effective ways to reduce these disparities and prevent disease outbreaks.
REACH demonstrates that effective vaccine delivery is possible even in complex humanitarian contexts when approaches are tailored to local realities. Through strong community engagement, negotiated access, and flexible service delivery models, the programme has significantly expanded its reach, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive consistent immunization services.
The programme also shows that large-scale vaccination efforts in crisis settings can be cost-effective, with delivery costs falling below global benchmarks. Its model combines sustained humanitarian access, regular vaccination services, and collaboration with local civil society partners to ensure long-term impact.
As global health systems face increasing pressure and limited resources, the International Rescue Committee is urging donors and partners to expand proven models like REACH. Scaling such initiatives is seen as essential to maintaining progress in global immunization and ensuring that the most vulnerable children are not left behind.
