AFS (formerly American Field Service) traces its roots back to volunteer ambulance drivers who provided their service during the two World Wars. In 1947, acting from a belief that understanding makes war impossible, they set-up AFS Intercultural Programs to start youth exchanges. Voluntary organisations were formed in many European countries to promote intercultural studies and exchanges at the secondary school level. These voluntary organisations met between 1964 and 1971, and formally established EFIL in Brussels in 1971. The Federation is recognised as an international association under Belgian law by Royal Decree of December 9, 1971.