Institute of Race Relations

Who we are

The IRR is at the cutting edge of the research and analysis that inform the struggle for racial justice in Britain, Europe and internationally. It seeks to reflect the experiences of those who suffer racial oppression and draws its perspectives from the most vulnerable in society.

Our culture and values

We think in order to do. Our clear analysis seeks to understand the world in order to change it. We work collectively to build the educative infrastructure necessary for transformative change.

We are an anchor in the storm. As an authority on racism since 1972, we provide a ‘place of record’ on racism and resistance, serving as a hub for advocacy communities to collaborate We connect causes. We take an intersectional approach that recognises how forms of oppression interrelate. Racial justice without social justice is incomplete. 

We are internationalist. Racism is upheld by globalised systems of exploitation, dispossession, and dehumanisation. We provide a global perspective to foster transnational solidarity and expand our understanding of racism We know racism is structural. Racism is not just personal prejudice but is structured into society.

Our starting point is always the perspective of those at the sharp end of racism We defend anti-racism. Racial justice is not supported by everyone. We inform, educate and push back to ensure that anti-racism is embraced as a core value across society.