CID is an umbrella organization, in the sense that it evolves on a different level from its members. It is not connected to any particular dance school, company, federation or other institution.

  CID does not organize festivals, workshops, competitions or other events — its Sections and its members do.

  Being strictly non-commercial, it sells no products or services. Its only resource is membership fees. It is independent of any government, political ideology or economic interest.

  CID treats all forms of dance on an equal basis. It does not promote a particular view of dance, recognizing its universal character as an art form, as a means of education and as a research subject.

  It is non-discriminatory. Reflecting the principles of the United Nations and UNESCO, it is open to all approaches to dance, without prejudice for race, gender, religion, political affiliation or social status.

  CIDisgoverneddemocratically — itsleadership is electedeveryfouryears. Elected officers receive no emolument.

  Membershipincreases constantly; in 2014 it included more than1100 institutional members (federations, schools, companies, competitions, festivals etc.) and over 8,000 individual members (choreographers, educators, dance historians, administrators, critics and others) in 170 countries.

  It is open to membership, accepting organizations, institutions or persons with sufficient credentials.