CISV programmes are based on the premise that there is hope for the future and that actions of individuals can and do have significance in community, national and international affairs. Emphasizing friendship, CISV educates through action, stressing co-operation rather than competition in activities based upon organizational goals of inspirational and educational value. CISV experiences form an important component in developing a global perspective and philosophy in life and desire to work for peace. CISV's International work is accomplished via a network of local, national and international members of all ages who serve as volunteers in conjunction with the staff members at the International Office. Each chapter hosting a Village pays the accommodation and programme expenses of the visiting delegations.
Delegates take part in a mix of sport, educational and cultural activities.
The growth of Villages. Interchange An Interchange is a family-oriented group exchenge between reciprocal pairs of CISV Chapters in different countries. Some Interchanges, particulary those between distant partners, take place during two successive years. Families receive no fees for hosting. The programme centres on activities which help participants discover and formulate their own opinions by exposing them to the ideas of young people from other cultures.