The International Organization of Folk Art (IOV) is the only international organization that deals with the basic issues of popular culture and folk art. It was founded in 1979 in Oostrozebeke, Belgium. The organization is officially registered in Vienna, and the Secretariat General is now based in Andorf, Austria. In 1983, IOV was accepted as a member to UNESCO and was recognized with the status C. In 1990, the UNESCO Executive Board passed a resolution to classify the IOV in category B (for information and consultative relations with UNESCO). According to the new UNESCO guidelines, IOV maintains official relations with this organization since January 1997. In 1998, the Executive Board of UNESCO decided that IOV is admitted to be in operational relations with UNESCO.

      Folk culture and folk art are essential goods of the cultural heritage of all peoples of the world. A rich and flourishing folk culture reflects human happiness, creativity, social responsibility and charity. It is an expression of cultural identity. The knowledge of the history and culture of other peoples should help promote a better mutual understanding and respect, and help create a world peace, which serves the well being of the entire mankind. The mission of IOV is to promote understanding among peoples through cultural exchange activities, in maintenance of the ideal of world peace.

      The members and colleagues of IOV can be found in 175 countries, 8 islands and archipelagos, including public agencies and non-governmental organizations, such as institutes, museums, universities, foundations, associations, unions, festivals, and individuals, total 3173 members(2004/8).

      Based on the decision made at the 3rd IOV World Congress held in October in Korea, a 9-member Transit Team (IOVTT) consist of senior members and representatives of each continent was formed. The IOVTT is undertaking the responsibility to re-construct the organization of IOV within a time frame of two years.

【International Commissions】:

1	Int'l Commission on Measures Concerning the Promotion, Development & Conservation of the Cultural Heritage
2	Int'l Commission on Science & Research
3	Int'l Commission on Ethnographic Museums
4	Int'l Commission on Handicrafts, Arts & Crafts
5	Int'l Commission on Traditional Architecture & Interior Design
6	Int'l Commission on Traditional Folk Music, Folk Dance, Folk Songs & Folk Music Instruments
7	Int'l Commission on Mythology, Legends, Fairy Tales, Literature, Popular Poetry & Popular Theatre
8	Int'l Commission on Popular Medicine & Treatment by Natural Remedies
9	Int'l Commission on Traditional Clothing
10	Int'l Commission on Traditional Meals & Beverages
11	Int'l Commission on the Work for Peace & Folk Culture with Children & Young Persons
12	Int'l Commission on Festivals
13	Int'l Commission on the Promotion of Folk Culture & the Solidarity among all Peoples of the World
14	Int'l Commission on the UNESCO "Culture for Peace" Project
15	Int'l Commission on Multimedia Publications
16	Int'l Economic and Financial Commission
17	Int'l Council of Senators of IOV
18	Int'l Commission for Supporting the IOV Secretariat General in Austria
19	Int'l Commission on the Organization of World Festivals of Folk Art
20	Int'l Commission on the Amendment of the Statutes & the Standing Orders of IOV