Our organization

SOS Children’s Villages International is a global federation of over 130 national member associations. Each supports children who have lost or risk losing parental care, and works to strengthen families and communities. While legally independent, all members are united by a shared mission and bound by common statutes, governance principles, and quality standards. Together, they commit to strong child safeguarding, high-quality programmes, and financial accountability to achieve the best outcomes for children, families, and communities. 

General Assembly

The General Assembly is the highest decision-making body of the federation. It includes all member associations and meets annually to set strategic direction, approve policies, and elect key leadership. The Assembly is led by a Chair and Vice Chair, elected from among its members for a three-year term. 

International Board

The International Board provides strategic oversight and ensures compliance with the federation’s statutes and policies. It is composed of 9 to 13 members, including one nominated by the Austrian member association. The Board is led by a Chair and Vice Chair, elected for three-year terms, and meets at least four times a year. 

General Secretariat

The General Secretariat is the operational arm of the federation, supporting member associations through services, coordination, and expertise. It implements decisions from governing bodies and drives strategic initiatives across the federation. Headquartered in Vienna, it operates through regional and global offices under the leadership of the Executive Board.

Executive Board

The Executive Board is responsible for the day-to-day management of the federation. It implements decisions from the General Assembly and the International Board, and leads the General Secretariat. The Board consists of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Program Officer, and is led by the CEO.

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