The foundation of W.O.F.A.P.S was in 15 October 1974 in Sao Paulo, Brazil during a Pediatric Surgery Congress with representative from 43 Countries under the Presidency of Prof. Virgilio Carvalho Pinto and Prof Josa Pinus was the Secretary General. The moment was propicious and with the inspiration of Prof. Jesus Lazoya Solis (Mexico) and the enthusiasm of all involved W.O.F.A.P.S was founded as a manifestation of our individual dreams projected into the context of the world.

The stated objectives are

The W.O.F.A.P.S shall be representation of Pediatric Surgical Association, but not of individual persons and it does not represent any political ideas nor does it make any racial or religious distinction. (see the Constitution )

The legal headquarters are in Berne, Switzerland. The first President elected in Sao Paulo (1974-1977) was H. Beardmore (Canada) and J. Lozoya Solis (Mexico) considered Past-President - followed each three years.

In 1983, only 23 Associations belonged to the WOFAPS, but the organization has made considerable strides since its inception and has grown to include about 70 members from every continent, and is recognized and participates in International Associations of Pediatric Surgery and also other organization such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and WHO.

This was due to the strong leadership and efforts the Presidents and Executive Council Member and specially the remarkable performance of its steadfast General Secretary Treasurer Prof. J. Boix-Ochoa.

In Kyoto (2001) we conclude the Declaration of Pediatric Surgery, a very important document aimed at better defining and widely divulging our speciality.