I ntercountry committees, or ICCs, are one of Rotary’s many paths to fostering goodwill and peace among nations. Think of ICCs as networks of Rotarians, Rotary clubs, or districts in two or more countries working together on a national level. They’re formed by and with the approval of district governors. In addition to encouraging contact between clubs and Rotarians to promote understanding and fellowship, ICCs facilitate international home visits, strengthen friendships, and promote service that transcends club, district, and national borders.
What ICCs do
Throughout the Rotary world, ICCs have traditionally served as a catalyst for World Community Service and other international humanitarian activities. Typical ICC projects include:
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Rotary Youth Exchanges (coordinated with district Youth Exchange programs) and homestays
- Professional training courses that help broaden the horizons of people in the project area while fostering improved socioeconomic relations between nations
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Rotary Friendship Exchanges , which often take place during holidays and the RI Convention
How an ICC starts
An ICC begins when two Rotary countries or geographical areas decide to improve international relations and increase understanding. Contacts begin at the club-to-club level. As communication grows, Rotarians in both areas recommend forming an ICC and work with district governors across borders to make it happen.
Here's an action plan for starting an ICC:
- Talk with fellow Rotarians at your next Rotary club meeting about forming an ICC.
- Explore ties that your club or district may already have with clubs or districts abroad through World Community Service and other international projects.
- Ask your district’s Youth Exchange chair about ways to get involved in ICCs.
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Download the ICC brochure (PDF) for more details and examples of what an ICC can accomplish.
Additional resources
Intercountry committees brochure (PDF)
Some ICCs have established Web sites. Here’s a sampling: