The World Animal Forum is an independent, unincorporated association. The activities are coordinated by a small secretariat based in Switzerland.

Activities are organized at the behest of its members. The membership consists of the CEOs of the leading animal protection groups. The members come together as leaders of the animal welfare world and not representatives of their respective organizations.

The Annual Meeting in Banna provides the backdrop to discuss issues of strategic importance to the animal protection world and while engaging with decision makers in frank, open and constructive discussions in a private setting. Further regional meetings are coordinated as required by members.

Joint initiatives are implemented in an ad hoc manner by the participating members rather than through the Forum’s secretariat.