Volleyball was invented in the United States and became an extremely popular sport in eastern Europe when introduced by American soldiers during World War I.

The long and significant tradition of the sport in the continent may at least partially account for the administrative structure employed by the CEV, which rivals the FIVB's in size and comprehensiveness.

It participates in the organization of qualification tournaments for major events such as the Olympic Games, men's and women's world championships and international competitions of its affiliated federations.

The CEV family increased its membership to 56 Federations following the approval of Kosovo on the opening day of the 35th FIVB World Congress held on 5 October 2016, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The CEV is divided into six zonal associations largely based on geography:[10] The Faroe Islands, Greenland and Iceland are members of the NEVZA and SCA.