IFPS proposes as it´s objective the creation and maintenance of a space permitting the production and reconstruction of psychoanalytic theory and technique, thus generating a symbolic and material space in which analysts may exchange and share ideas. Founded in 1962, IFPS was created with the objective of intensifying scientific and personal contact as well as exchanging points of view between member psychoanalytic societies through free discussions about the theory and practice of psychoanalysis and the publication of shared experiences in relation to themes related to the formation of analysts.
The existence of the Federation is in itself of value because it is one of the international alternatives of organization and it´s stated objective is to promote a greater diversity and discussion within psychoanalytic thought, as well as to offer a different model of centralized institutional organization. The Federation is conceived of as a space for scientific exchange with pluralistic points of view that take in account the legitimacy of different psychoanalytic perspectives.
The IFPS proposes a model of institution that tries to differentiate itself from rigid criteria in the organization of the institution, attempting to get rid of bureaucratic practices whose only purpose is the “corporate defense” of the institution, which supposes a critical vision of a conception that generates hierarchic categories amongst the members.
The IFPS, within the framework of it´s statutes, respects and values the different ways of doing things and the differences in theory and praxis of it´s member societies. These differences facilitate the comparing and exchange of ideas and practices that permit the development of psychoanalysis. We assume, therefore, that belonging to the institution is due to desire and not to a necessity to belong; the desire to share different points of view in relation to theories and clinical practice, the desire to exchange experiences with the process of “training” (transmission) and to confront new ideas with well established ones, as well as the desire for social contact and for opportunities of human contact and fraternity.