What is the purpose of MAIF?

The MAIF provides the international forum for martial arts where Nationally Recognized Martial Art Organizations (NRMAO) and International Partner Martial Art Organizations (IPMAO) can debate related issues in order to establish International Programs and Standards for the further development of the Martial Arts. Note, the MAIF has no world governing body objectives nor Olympic agenda. Instead, the MAIF is building "The Global Network" of National Organizations and International Partner Organizations with a "Commitment To Excellence" and maintaining the Highest Standards in the Martial Arts. The MAIF does respect, cooperate and support the "sport expressions" of the ancient martial arts and their national & international governing bodies.

When was MAIF founded?

The MAIF was established in 1998, following a collective effort by several Nationally Recognized Martial Art Organizations as well as International Martial Art Groups & Institutions from the USA, Europe, and Asia that were concerned with maintaining the highest standards in both Technical Excellence and Leadership Development in the Global Martial Arts Community.

What programs and activities are promoted by MAIF?

1. Providing a Global Communications Network for all Member Organizations to enhance the sharing of knowledge in the Martial Arts and building fellowship worldwide.

2. International Training Seminars & Camps which include both traditional and competitive skill development in the various martial arts.

3. Board meetings and a periodic Congress of delegates from the member organizations where goals, objectives and management issues are debated and ratified as Programs, Policy or Standards in the International Martial Arts Community.

4. International Rank Certification based on National Rank already held by the applicant and submitted by the respective National Member Organization or International Partner Organization.

5. International Instructor / Examiner Certification based on applicant's existing National Certification and submitted by the respective National Member Organization or International Partner Organization.

6. Participation in various MAIF sponsored events held under the sanctions of National Member Organizations or International Partner organizations

7. International Award Recognition for making original contributions, achieving excellence or long distinguished service in the Martial Arts.

Who may join the MAIF?

The MAIF is the International Federation for Nationally Recognized Martial Art Organizations (NRMAO) and International Partner Martial Art Organizations (IPMAO). The MAIF does accept both "Group" (organization) and Individual Memberships.  Individuals not affiliated with a MAIF Group Member, may also join MAIF.  Individuals with martial art grades below black belt may join as "Associate Members" and those holding national black belt grades may join as "Full Members".

Note: Only one Nationally Recognized Martial Art Organization (NRMAO) per style or system from each country may join the MAIF. An exception to this policy may occur, if a Nationally Recognized Multi-System Martial Arts ("confederation type") Organization exists that also works in cooperation with the other NRMAOs in a particular country. International Partner Organizations are also accepted for MAIF membership. All of the above organizations must prescribe to the highest standards for excellence and integrity in the International Martial Arts Community.

(See "Membership" for more details)