The Institute engages in research and cultural activities, organizes conferences, workshops and training activities training activities including specific courses for public and private operators. IPALMO is also a service provider and takes part in missions throughout Italy and abroad. It publishes periodical books on specific themes as well as its own journal, "Politica Internazionale", with the overall objective of promoting and developing international economic and cultural relations with other countries.

IPALMO's global aim is to build awareness in Italy and around the world of socio-political and economic circumstances in developing countries. To this end, the Institute stimulates debate between political forces and civil society on the specific role of Italian foreign policy, in general, and Italy's international development co-operation action, in particular. IPALMO encourages research in these areas, providing documentary and technical support for focus studies.