The Institute for Internal Auditors has published a new practice guide to help public sector internal auditors improve the work they do to audit public institutions and municipalities.
Incorporating the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing and insights for internal audit practitioners in the public sector globally, this new recommended guidance from the IIA will help chief audit executives and internal auditors navigate the unique aspects of internal auditing in a public sector context.
Public sector organizations are expected to serve the public good, uphold the principles of ethical governance, and comply with myriad laws and regulations. Yet the nature of politics may put pressure on, or conflict with, ethical governance principles. “This guide provides a solid foundation to help internal auditors properly manage the opposing forces of political pressures and ethical principles,” the IIA said in a statement.
Topics of the guide include:
- Understanding the definition of public sector and the types of public sector organizations.
- Recognizing public sector governance roles and how they may affect internal audit principles such as organizational independence and unrestricted access.
- Incorporating any additional standards specific to the public sector.
- Assessing the organization’s commitment to ethical governance principles.
- Identifying the types of engagements performed in the public sector and how to plan them.
IIA members can download this guidance, and nonmembers may purchase the practice guide by visiting the IIA Bookstore. 