The International Organization of Folk Art (IOV) is a worldwide organization, which deals comprehensively with the preservation and promotion of popular culture, folk art, and intangible cultural heritage. The primary goal of IOV is to promote understanding and tolerance among peoples of the world through diversified cultural exchange activities, in maintenance of the ideal of world peace.

IOV was first initiated and founded in 1979 in Oostrozebeke/Belgium. The organization is registered in Vienna/Austria, with the Secretariat General located in Andorf, Austria now. In 1983, IOV was accepted as a member of UNESCO and was recognized with Status C. In 1990, the UNESCO Executive Board passed a resolution to classify IOV in category B (for information and consultative relations with UNESCO). Since 1998, IOV was admitted as an NGO in operational relations with UNESCO, according to the decision of the UNESCO Executive Board at its 154th session.

Folk culture and art are essential goods of the cultural heritage of all peoples of the world. A rich and flourishing folk culture reflects human happiness, creativity, social responsibility and charity. It provides people with a sense of identity and continuity. The knowledge of the history and culture of other peoples should help promote a better mutual understanding and respect among peoples, and help create a more harmonious civil society and world peace, which will serve the well being of the entire mankind.

IOV welcomes all individuals and groups of the world regardless of race, sex, language and religion to join the collaborative work of the organization. The work of IOV is based on the respect of human rights and basic liberty of all peoples of the world. This features significantly in the active participation of IOV in UNESCO's project "Culture of Peace".