[1][2] The organization maintains observer status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and comprises over 100 member obediences across multiple continents.
Conservative Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, represented primarily by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), maintained strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership.
Its text, carefully crafted to address fundamental issues within Freemasonry, declared: The Sovereign Masonic Powers meeting in Strasbourg on January 22, 1961, considering that it is imperative to restore among all Freemasons the Chain of Union broken by regrettable exclusions contrary to the principles of Anderson's Constitutions of 1723, and that it is important to this effect to research in common, taking into account all traditions, all rites, all symbols, all beliefs and in respect of absolute freedom of conscience, the conditions which determine the quality of Freemason.The Appeal established several revolutionary principles for its time: Following its establishment in 1961, CLIPSAS formally registered as an association under French law (1901), establishing its headquarters in Paris.
This period of consistent leadership provided stability during the organization's crucial early decades, allowing for steady development of its institutional framework and expansion of its international influence.
Unlike traditional Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, which mandates belief in a Supreme Being, CLIPSAS empowers each lodge and obedience to determine its own spiritual framework.
The organization's approach to social progress integrates Masonic wisdom with modern humanitarian concerns, creating innovative responses to global challenges.
Through coordinated efforts among member obediences, CLIPSAS advances human rights initiatives, supports educational development, and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
These efforts reflect the organization's understanding that Masonic principles must find practical expression in addressing societal needs and promoting human advancement.
[10] Through ongoing philosophical dialogue among its diverse membership, CLIPSAS develops new insights into perennial Masonic questions while addressing emerging challenges.
This document emphasizes:[11] That all Earth's inhabitants unite in actions promoting true human solidarity, that they rise against all forms of fundamentalism, against all aggression, against all exclusion, that they work towards the harmonious development of all human beings in freedom of conscience and mutual respect.CLIPSAS emerged as a direct response to what Liberal Masonic bodies viewed as overly restrictive and dogmatic recognition policies of Anglo-Saxon Freemasonry, particularly those enforced by the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE).
While UGLE and affiliated Conservative Grand Lodges maintain strict requirements regarding belief in a Supreme Being and male-only membership, CLIPSAS established an alternative system of recognition based on freedom of conscience and gender inclusivity.
The admission process requires thorough verification of Masonic lineage and constitutional establishment, alongside demonstrated commitment to the principles of the Strasbourg Appeal.
The organization maintains detailed documentation of legitimate Liberal Masonic bodies and facilitates constant information sharing among members about irregular activities.
Its observer status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) provides additional institutional legitimacy, particularly important when Conservative Masonic bodies challenge the regularity of Liberal practices.
This includes establishing standardized protocols for inter-visitation, developing mutual recognition agreements, and maintaining shared documentation systems that verify the legitimacy of member organizations.
The organization empowers Liberal Masonic bodies to assert their legitimacy independently of Conservative recognition while maintaining philosophical and practical autonomy.
Below is a comprehensive, current list organized by region:[3] Notable obediences joining since 2022:[3] Through its observer status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council, CLIPSAS maintains a significant presence in international advocacy work.
When natural disasters strike, CLIPSAS mobilizes its international network for coordinated relief efforts, providing both immediate aid and long-term recovery support.
The administrative sessions address organizational governance and strategic planning, while academic colloquia provide platforms for scholarly discussion of Masonic philosophy, history, and contemporary social issues.
The conventions frequently rotate between different host countries, allowing member obediences to showcase their unique Masonic traditions and cultural heritage while strengthening the bonds of universal brotherhood.
The situation escalated when outgoing president Ivan Herrera Michel declared Daly's victory despite vocal opposition and without following traditional procedures requiring a majority above 50%.
The organization has also faced scrutiny over its financial transparency, notably regarding the requirement for cash-only payments at official events, as evidenced during the 2024 assembly where participation fees of €250 were mandated in cash.
[21][22] In 2024, CLIPSAS leadership attempted to pursue legal action against Masonic media outlets reporting on internal controversies, raising concerns about the organization's commitment to press freedom.