They are dedicated to the rescue, collection, preservation and screening of moving images, which are valued both as works of art and culture and as historical documents.

As of April 2021, it comprises 171 institutions in 79 countries - a reflection of the extent to which preservation of moving image heritage has become a world-wide concern.

Current members reflect a wide range of non-profit institutions, including government archives, independent foundations and trusts, self-contained cinematheques, and museum or university departments.

Much of the work of FIAF takes the form of active cooperation between members on projects of mutual benefit or interest - for example, the careful restoration of a particular film, or the compilation of a national or international filmography.

Training of archive personnel takes place at FIAF Summer Schools and Technical Symposia that have been held several times in various countries.