The work of the Council focuses on providing strategic direction for the activities of the Union, the discusssion of specific policy issues and the provision of guidance on finance and the membership development of the Union.

The main functions of Council are to:

• to approve the annual programme and budget developed within the overall framework of activities adopted by the World Conservation Congress;
• to review regularly, the implementation of the programme;
• to review the work of the Commissions;
• to approve the annual report of the Director General and the audited accounts;
• to admit members and officially recognize National and Regional Committees; and
• to appoint and evaluate the work of the Director General.

As provided for in the Statutes (see below), the Council has appointed a number of Committees to expedite its work. During the current mandate, the Committees of Council include:

• Finance and Audit Committee;
• Human Resources Policy Committee;
• Membership Committee;
• Programme and Policy Committee; and
• Preparatory Committee for the next World Conservation Congress.

The Council normally meets twice a year and often works intersessionally with the support of its Committees.