The IBO was created in 1984 by a dedicated group with the mutual desire to ensure that bowhunting and the ideals of wildlife conservation will survive, expand and flourish to be shared, enjoyed and passed on to future generations. By its charter, the statement of purpose of the International Bowhunting Organization is: "To promote, encourage and foster the sport of bowhunting; further bowhunter education; act as a political coordinator and liaison for the protection and advancement of bowhunting--function as a clearinghouse for essential bowhunter information; and--adhere to the basic ideal of the unification of bowhunters."