The ITI World Association was founded in 1948 on the guiding principle that cultural exchange, global networking, and mutual understanding stabilize the world order far beyond the political arena and thus contribute to sustaining peace.  

As a global network based in Paris and Shanghai, ITI now comprises over 92 national centers, each of which forms an association of artists and cultural professionals, groups and collectives, cultural institutions, and associations in their respective countries.

In accordance with its charter, ITI is committed to the free development of the performing arts, the protection and promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions, and the protection of artists' rights. To this end, the organization is involved at the international and national levels in international exchange and cooperation, as well as in the areas of cultural education, training in the performing arts, and the promotion of young talent.

The ITI World Association organizes international festivals and congresses together with its members. It established World Theater Day and World Dance Day and publishes annual messages from personalities from the worlds of theater and dance.

Jessica Kaahwa (Uganda) has been president of the World Association since 2024.  
ITI Worldwide has had two German presidents: Ivan Nagel (from 1977 to 1980) and Manfred Beilharz (from 2002 to 2008).