This week, the Washington Post published a poll showing that the U.S. Congress has set a new record for disapproval. A whopping 84 percent of Americans do not approve of the way Congress is doing its job. Media coverage of the House and Senate highlights the brinksmanship and polarized politicking that seems to surround every piece of legislation – and now, even routine nominations and confirmations.

Happy New Year, from all of us at Refugees International! Before we start tackling the challenges of 2012 – and there will be many – we bring you a brief wrap-up of all things RI from the year gone by.

First, "RI in 2011: By the Numbers":

For Americans living comfortably and securely, the life of a refugee seeking safety and survival is hard to imagine. Conflict, persecution, abuse, and threats force a refugee to flee, leaving behind their home and possessions, their friends, their community, and often their family.

They flee without knowing if they will be able to return to their loved ones and communities, or if they will be accepted somewhere they can be safe. Social and gender discrimination often makes women’s search for safety even more difficult.

Today, leaders from government, civil society, and the UN gathered at the US Institute of Peace to explore statelessness and its impact on women worldwide. The Institute's sparkling new headquarters played host to an insightful and inspiring discussion - a fitting kick-off for a week full of stateless advocacy here at RI.