The Union's field of scientific activity is spread over a number of Divisions. The main function of Divisions is to support researchers in collaborative work and provide an organizational link among Research Groups and their associated Working Parties and also between these Groups and the IUFRO Board.

The aim of Task Forces is to strengthen IUFRO activities in specific areas. They contribute to international processes and activities.

Special Programmes are long-term activities with the aim to improve networking, research capacities and information exchange.

Special Projects are limited-term activities with specific objectives.

GFIS, the Global Forest Information Service, was founded as a IUFRO Task Force, and was later transformed into a Special Programme. Recently, it has become an initiative of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests (CPF).

IUFRO Structure and Officeholders (overview and contact details, status: March 2024)