a passionate architect of sanitation systems
Published on: 05/12/2025
This week we received the news that our former colleague and associate Erick Baetings passed away.
Erick joined IRC in 2010 as our sanitation expert. He came in with an extensive track record and living experience in Asia and Africa. Erick played a key role in the strategic development of our sanitation and hygiene portfolio. On 19 November, during World Toilet Day, we paid tribute to him and celebrated him as a systems leader. We did so while knowing that he was very ill, still hoping that he would feel our love and appreciation.
Throughout his professional life, Erick has been a passionate architect of sanitation systems, shaping the way we should think about sanitation, with a systems lens, beyond hardware, addressing governance, finance, monitoring, regulation and addressing the entire sanitation chain. His work has influenced national strategies and sector reforms across multiple countries, especially in Asia. His publications have become essential reading for practitioners and policymakers alike. Erick reminds us that true change often comes from those who quietly build the foundations for lasting impact.
Erick retired from IRC in 2023, but as he was so passionate about our mission, he stayed on as an IRC associate.
Personally, I remember Erick as a wonderful man, full of life and energy. A great colleague and one whose unmistakable presence in our office I’ve been missing since he retired, and doubly so now.
On behalf of all the IRC staff, I extend our deepest condolences to Erick’s partner, his brothers and his sisters, and to all who knew and loved Erick. Our thoughts are with you. We will remember Erick with love and respect for who he was. His legacy will continue to inspire us.
For those who would like to share a memory or message for condolence to his family. Please write to us via communications@ircwash.org and we will make sure to pass on the messages.
Rest in peace Erick.
Patrick Moriarty
CEO, IRC