The World Association of Detectives was formed as a joint venture by the combined membership of the World Association of Detectives and the International Secret Service Association for the following purposes:

• To promote and maintain the highest ethical practices in the profession of private investigator or security service;
   
• To select for membership only those individuals whose personal and professional backgrounds and business affiliations have strictly observed the precepts of truth, accuracy and prudence;
   
• To endeavor to eliminate unreliable, incompetent and irresponsible members of the profession;
   
• To foster and perpetuate a spirit of cooperation among its members and with all those engaged in law enforcement; and
   
• To further and establish a mutual feeling of trust, goodwill and friendship among agencies throughout the world.