The overall mission [4] of IUPsyS, as specified in its statutes,[5] is the development, representation and advancement of psychology as a basic and applied science regionally, nationally, and internationally.

This is accomplished through a variety of activities, including quadrennial international congresses (the IUPsyS is the sponsor of the International Congress of Psychology), regional conferences and workshops; publications; capacity building; development of standards; promulgation of policy; and information dissemination.

[6] IUPsyS is a member of the International Council for Science (ICSU),[7] the International Social Science Council (ISSC), and is accredited with the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations (ECOSOC and DPI).

The activities undertaken by the IUPsyS are generally organized through its three Standing Committees: Strategic Planning, Capacity Building, Publications and Communications, and their associated Work Groups.

[14] The IUPsyS supports cooperation and exchange among members of the world community of psychologists through regular communication with its National Member organizations, in the biennial meetings of the Assembly of the Union, and through its web and print publications.