The Program on Forests (PROFOR) was created in 1997 to support in-depth analysis, innovative processes and knowledge-sharing and dialogue, in the belief that sound forest policy can lead to better outcomes on issues ranging from livelihoods and financing, to illegal logging, biodiversity and climate change. Since 2002, the program has been managed by a core team based at the World Bank, with support from multiple donors. PROFOR encourages a big-picture approach to forest conservation and management in developing countries.

PROFOR activities focus on 4 main themes: improving the livelihoods of forest-dependent people, enhancing forest governance, financing sustainable forest management, and coordinating forest policy with other sectors. The resulting knowledge spans many countries and topics.