The European Coordination was formed in 1994 on the initiative several French associations, which is why it was established in Paris and its statutes designed in conformance with French legislation.

At a special general assembly in Genoa (Italy) on 27 March 1998, it was decided to transfer the organisation headquarters to Brussels and to modify the statutes to correspond to Belgian legislation on international associations.

The primary goal of the association, which is a non-profit-making organisation, is to see that, on the level of the European Union, measures are taken to guarantee the right to family life for foreigners living in one of the states of the Union. Its second objective is to take part in constructing a democratic and social Europe where members of immigrant families find their place as citizens without discrimination.

It acts through its member associations and through the national coordinations, where they exist. (Art. 3, statutes).

The European Coordination is composed of individuals and entities legally constituted according to the laws and customs of their country of origin that approve of its goals and uphold its bylaws.

They may be:
- full members: international or European associations, associations in the countries of European Union; or
- associate members: individuals, exempt from yearly fees. (Art. 4, statutes).