The work is built on the principles of universal fellowship and basic human democratic rights. It recognises that alcohol and other drugs constitute a serious threat to the dignity and freedom of people and their societies.

Alcohol and Drug Policy
IOGT International has joined forces with other advocacy groups and international organisations to promote control mechanisms for alcohol use. It encourages public policies that seek to minimise alcohol problems by decreasing overall alcohol consumption. Alcohol is now the leading risk factor to public health in developing countries with low mortality rates and it ranks third in developed countries.
IOGT International has been the initiator and co-founder of several networks working on alcohol control. Among them the most significant are Eurocare and the Global Alcohol Policy Alliance (GAPA). It also works closely with international organisations, UN agencies and Non-Governmental Organisations.

Rehabilitation
Substance abuse has become a major social problem in most countries. Hence, there is an urgent need for a variety of treatment, rehabilitation and care approaches in dealing with the problem. A special working group has been set up by IOGT International to develop an advisory service, which will assist not only member organisations but also other bodies/networks that are involved in rehabilitation work.

Youth work
The organisation works preventively to minimise substance use among high-risk populations especially young people and children.
The lead in youth work is taken by the European youth organisation, EGTYF. Special programmes targeting the youth including conferences, workshops and camps are organised on a regular basis. EGTYF is also a recognised participant in youth networks and advisory committees.

Children’s work
The objective is to encourage children to uphold a life free from alcohol and other drugs and to participate fully in matters affecting their lives and the lives of others. The work is based on the platform of IOGT International, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the ethical principles embodied in the WHO European Alcohol Charter.

Peace and Development
IOGT International works on the premise that drug use including alcohol and tobacco is a hindrance to development and the improvement of living conditions of people. The projects are implemented mainly with support of development agencies, mainly FORUT Norway and the Swedish IOGT-NTO Movement, with a very strong bias towards drug prevention, poverty reduction and democracy. The partners are located in South East Asia, South Asia, East and West Africa.