The Royal Irish Academy/Acadamh Ríoga na hEireann is an all-Ireland, independent, academic body that promotes study and excellence in the sciences, humanities and social sciences. It is the principal learned society in Ireland and has over 420 members who are elected in recognition of their academic achievements. In accordance with its mission statement the Academy:

• Co-ordinates scholarship on a cross-institutional, inter-disciplinary, national and international basis (see Committees)
• Recognises and awards academic excellence (see Members and Grants and Awards)
• Provides independent expert advice on academic matters and issues of public interest (see Policy and Committees)
• Provides an independent forum and a voice for the Irish academic community
• Represents Ireland on international academic organisations
• Organises lectures, conferences, symposia and discourses (see Events)
• Funds study visits, academic exchanges and visiting fellowships (see Grants and Awards)
• Manages nine national research and publication projects (see Research Projects)
• Facilitates scholarship by sustaining one of the finest research libraries in Ireland (see Library)
• Publishes academic journals, monographs and historical maps (see Publications)
  
  A President and a Council of 21 members govern the Academy. The Executive Committee, which comprises the officers of the Academy, the Executive Secretary and a staff representative, oversees the day-to-day business of the Academy on behalf of the Council.