ICCROM is an intergovernmental organization (IGO) dedicated to the conservation of cultural heritage. It exists to serve the international community as represented by its Member States, which currently number more than 125.

ICCROM is governed by a General Assembly consisting of delegates from all its Member States. The ICCROM Council has 25 members elected by the General Assembly. The Secretariat of ICCROM consists of the Director-General and staff.

In 2001, ICCROM adopted seven strategic directions, designed to guide the organization's future activities. These have been revised for the period 2008-2010.

The proposal to create an intergovernmental centre for the study and improvement of methods of restoration was adopted at the 9th Session of the UNESCO General Conference in New Delhi, in 1956.