Following the Beatenberg Declaration (3 June 1994), space agencies from all over the world met in Hamburg, at the EGS Moon Workshop (3-7 April 1995) and in full agreement decided to create an International Lunar Exploration Working Group (ILEWG). The charter of ILEWG is:

1. To develop an international strategy for the exploration of the Moon
2. To establish a forum and mechanisms for the communication and coordination of activities
3. To implement international coordination and cooperation

In order to facilitate communication among all interested parties ILEWG agrees to establish an electronic communication network for exchange of science, technology and programmatic information related to lunar activities.

All interested space agencies will appoint two or three members. A chairperson is selected among the ILEWG members every two years.

ILEWG will meet regularly, at least, once a year, and will lead the organization of an International Conference every two years in order to discuss the state of lunar exploration.

Formal reports will be given at COSPAR meetings.