RI is a democratic organization governed by an Assembly – representing its member organizations – and by an Executive Committee elected by the Assembly. Policies and activities approved by the Assembly are carried out by the Secretariat, headed by the Secretary General. The Assembly meets once a year to discuss the general policies of the organization.

RI holds quadrennial World Congresses, Regional Conferences and international meetings on disability-related topics across the globe. RI is a matrix organization, and promotes global actions through its regional committees which are represented by RI’s Vice Presidents and Deputy Vice Presidents of several regions. RI also maintains commissions of specialists and experts on issues in disability. Represented by the RI Chairs and Vice Chairs, the commissions are thematic working groups which assist in developing and expanding program activities in accordance with RI’s strategic goals.