[6][7][8][9][10] IPI specializes in multilateral approaches to peace and security issues, working closely with the United Nations system and its member states.

[6] IPI states that it produces “evidence-based analysis and practical policy recommendations to inform debate and guide decision making on complex and emerging issues;” that it “engages policy- and decision-makers from the United Nations System, member states, regional organizations, civil society, and the private sector through candid discussion;” and that it “provides innovative and strategic advice on multilateral processes to these partners to help them develop and implement achievable and sustainable solutions.”[11][12] As of May 2024, IPI has a staff of approximately 38.

Under his tenure, IPI initiated an innovative program aimed at training civilians and military officers together for the challenges of preventing conflict and building peace.

David M. Malone, a Canadian scholar-diplomat, took over as President in 1998, followed by Terje Rød-Larsen, from 2005 to 2020, a Norwegian sociologist and diplomat who has served the UN as its senior envoy in the Middle East, and a principal architect of the 1990s Oslo Peace Accords.

[18] The IPI works in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Central Asia[19] that involves interacting with international diplomats, dignitaries and scholars (especially from the United Nations) to achieve its goals [vague].