One hundred thirty five women's organizations in more than thirty countries have since then been given support for projects for girls and women as a result of this joint effort. Experience and results from this TV Telethon program led to Norwegian women's organizations wanting lasting cooperation on international affairs and development. As a result, FOKUS was formally inaugurated in 1995.
Women's organizations in Norway have strong traditions in promoting women's social and economic development and political influence. Cooperation between women's organizations in Norway extends all the way back to the creation of the Norwegian Women's National Council in 1904. The oldest member organization in FOKUS has celebrated its eightieth year anniversary. FOKUS represents the continuation of the five-year collaboration amongst the organizations originating from the TV fund-raising event in 1989, "Women in the Third World” and the Centre for international Women's Issues (SIKS) (1989-1994). The TV Telethon event was an example of solidarity in practice. Collaborative efforts between Norwegian women's organizations in the North and their sister organizations in the South prompted continuation of such positive efforts through FOKUS’ founding. Currently, FOKUS enjoys a membership of 74 organizations including women’s committees in diverse political parties, development aid groups, and in solidarity organizations.
Many of the affiliated organizations have consultative status in United Nations agencies and other international federations. Many are members of regional and international networks.