Servas began as a peace movement. The idea behind Servas was simple and direct: if people throughout the world met each other to share their cultures, customs and thoughts, they would understand each other better, and peace would be encouraged.

Gradually an international network of travellers and hosts came into being. They offered each other hospitality and visited each other in order to get to know and share their worlds. In addition to the umbrella organisation Servas International, more than 130 countries have their own Servas organisation. All of these organisations are run by volunteers.