Full IPC Sessions are hosted every four years in a different region of the world. Each Session has a theme reflecting regional priorities related to the use of poplars, willows and other fast-growing trees species in that region. Participants include policy makers, planners, scientists, managers, users, academics from public and private institutions, landowners, indigenous peoples and students with an interest in growing and using poplars, willows and other fast-growing trees species.

Sessions of the IPC Executive Committee are held during each session of the IPC and at least once between sessions. The Executive Committee is the driving force of the International Poplar Commission. It has 12 members elected in a personal capacity for a four-year term, and a maximum of 5 members co-opted for the same duration. All candidates are presented by member countries for their special competence.

Technical meetings  are organized by National Commissions, member countries or research institutions.