The CIFAL Global Network's mission is to strengthen the capacities of government officials and civil society leaders, thus empowering them to advance sustainable development.

CIFAL stands for “Centre International de Formation des Autorités et Leaders” (in French), and in English - "International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders".

The CIFAL Global Network is composed of 30 CIFAL centres, all coordinated by UNITAR's Division for People. The locations of the 30 centres, which can be found across Asia, Oceania, Africa, Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean ensure a global reach. Each CIFAL centre provides innovative training and serves as a hub for the exchange of knowledge amongst government officials, the private sector and civil society.

The CIFAL network was launched in 2003 and since its inception has had a significant impact on reaching beneficiaries worldwide.