The ISRM is a non-profit scientific association supported by the fees of the members and grants that do not impair its free action. In 2011 the Society has 6,500 members and 48 National Groups. The field of Rock Mechanics is taken to include all studies relative to the physical and mechanical behaviour of rocks and rock masses and the applications of this knowledge for the better understanding of geological processes and in the fields of Engineering (ISRM Statutes

The main objectives and purposes of the Society are:

To encourage international collaboration and exchange of ideas and information between Rock Mechanics practitioners;

To encourage teaching, research, and advancement of knowledge in Rock Mechanics;

To promote high standards of professional practice among rock engineers so that civil, mining and petroleum engineering works might be safer, more economic and less disruptive to the environment.