The FSC General Assembly (GA), initiated in 1996, has become a pivotal gathering for members to guide the evolution of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Each assembly reflects contemporary challenges and decisions that influence the organization's direction. Participation has steadily increased, from over 90 members in 1996 to more than 750 in 2022, with over 800 expected in Panama in 2025. This growth is accompanied by a commitment to diversity, including the establishment of the Permanent Indigenous Peoples’ Committee (PIPC) in 2011 to amplify Indigenous voices.

The GA has also innovated its format and locations to promote inclusivity, transitioning to a hybrid model after the COVID-19 pandemic, which has expanded access to members worldwide. In 2022, the assembly officially recognized French as a third language, enhancing communication and engagement for French-speaking members, particularly from the Congo Basin.

Significant motions passed during the assemblies have shaped FSC’s ethical and operational frameworks, such as the restoration of degraded forests and stricter policies against unethical practices. These decisions underscore the GA’s role in addressing real-world forestry challenges and highlight the collaborative spirit of the FSC, where diverse voices come together to drive sustainable change in forests and communities globally.