It describes itself as "the premier global interlocutor for evidence-based policy measures and community-based interventions to prevent and reduce harm caused by alcohol and other drugs."

It claims to be the largest worldwide community of non-governmental organisations with a mission to independently enlighten people around the world on a lifestyle free from alcohol and other drugs.

The IOGT originated as one of a number of fraternal organizations for temperance or total abstinence founded in the 19th century and with a structure modeled on Freemasonry, using similar ritual and regalia.

Coon left the meeting and his lodge supported his actions by seceding as the Independent Order of Good Templars, with the motto altered to "Faith, Hope and Charity."

In 1868, Joseph Malins returned to his native England and established a Birmingham lodge, from which IOGT spread to Europe and the rest of the world.

Within three years the Order spread to Ireland, Wales, Australia, Malta, New Zealand, France, Portugal, South Africa, Bermuda, Belgium and East India.

"[4] In an attempt to modernize its image the IOGT changed some of its titles and ritualistic features in the 1970s, the use of regalia and rituals began to diminish or were eliminated.

An 1874 Journal of Proceedings report provided information that Cold Water Temples, or organizations very similar to them, existed in 24 Grand Lodge jurisdictions in Alabama, Canada, California, Colorado, Connecticut, England, Georgia, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Scotland, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wales.