The 1983 Ice Hockey World Championships took place in West Germany from 16 April to 2 May.

The Soviet Union became world champions for the 19th time, tying Canada, and won their 22nd European title.

Promotion and relegation was effective for 1985 as the IIHF did not run a championship in Olympic years at this time.

Nations that did not participate in the Sarajevo Olympics were invited to compete in the Thayer Tutt Trophy.

Fourth place Norway had to play off against the Group C winner (the Netherlands) to fill the final Olympic spot.