The purpose of IFLA’s Advisory Committees is to advise the Governing Board, to coordinate related activities across IFLA in key thematic areas, to support IFLA policy development and advocacy, and to facilitate the development of relationships with relevant global and regional organisations on issues for which the advisory committee is responsible.

The four Advisory Committees cover a range of policy areas and topics, and support the work of IFLA’s top-level governance on major policy or other cross-cutting issues. They are mandated to work to ensure that all parts of IFLA are able to benefit from their deep expertise. The Governing Board may establish additional Advisory Committees from time to time in response to emerging issues.

The Governing Board may refer reports or questions to the Professional or Regional Councils as appropriate.

Each Advisory Committee has 10 members including a chair. They may also have ex officio members, as well as expert advisors.