The World Association of Detectives (W.A.D.) was founded in 1925. It is the International Association for Private Investigators and Security Service Organizations. The World Association of Detectives was formed as a joint venture by the combined membership of the World Association of Detectives and the International Secret Service Association. It is the oldest international association in its field. In 1972 it had 400 members in 34 countries, growing to over 700 in about 40 countries in 1997.

W.A.D. promotes

• Maintain the highest ethical practices in the profession of private investigator
  Private investigator
  A private investigator , private detective or inquiry agent, is a person who can be hired by individuals or groups to undertake investigatory law services. Private detectives/investigators often work for attorneys in civil cases. Many work for insurance companies to investigate suspicious claims...
  
  or security service;
• To select for membership only those individuals whose personal and professional backgrounds and business affiliations have strictly observed the precepts of truth, accuracy and prudence;
• To endeavor to eliminate unreliable, incompetent and irresponsible members of the profession;
• To foster and perpetuate a spirit of cooperation among its members and with all those engaged in law enforcement; and
• To further and establish a mutual feeling of trust, goodwill and friendship among agencies throughout the world.