IUDF transforms ideas into action and policy by focusing its efforts where opinions are formed and decisions are made. IUDF holds events throughout the year, including the leading Thinkers series, briefings on current events, expert roundtables for non-Resident Indians, public officials, diplomats and military officers, book releases, and debates within the policy community.

IUDF scholars believe that no one should be denied basic human rights including freedom of religion, speech and assembly; that no one should be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin; that free and democratic nations have a right to defend themselves and an obligation to defend one another; and that terrorism – unlawful and premeditated violence against civilians to instill fear and coerce governments or societies – is always wrong and should never be condoned.