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Building Public Trust in the Arab Region: Jordan Hosts 3rd Annual SAI Independence Symposium focused on Informal Factors
26/06/2025
What does it take for public institutions to truly operate independently? In the Arab region, this question is gaining momentum not only in law but in practice.
In May 2025, leaders from audit institutions, parliaments, and international partners came together in Amman, Jordan to explore how public trust, collaboration, and informal relationships shape the independence of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs). Held for the third time annually since 2023, the SAI Independence Symposium underscored the critical role of parliaments in safeguarding SAI independence, both through oversight and trust-based cooperation.
Hosted by the Audit Bureau of Jordan (SAI Jordan), the Arab Organisation for Supreme Audit Institutions (ARABOSAI), and the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI), this year’s event focused on an important but often overlooked piece of the independence puzzle: informal factors. Opened by the President of the Jordanian Senate, the symposium included high-level parliamentary representatives and highlighted growing momentum for deeper SAI–parliament engagement in the region.
Across the Arab region, the commitment to strengthening the independence of Supreme Audit Institutions is growing. SAIs are increasingly recognising that independence is not just about laws—it’s also about how institutions operate in practice.
At the opening of the symposium, President of the Jordanian Audit Bureau, His Excellency Radhi Al-Hamadeen, pictured above, captured this well: “Formal laws matter, but informal safeguards such as public trust, media visibility, and political relationships also shape how we work.” Experts from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the World Bank echoed this, noting that regional gatherings like this one are key to sustainable change.
Representatives from 14 countries, including from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Tunisia, and Yemen, joined the two-day event to share experiences and explore solutions. Through peer learning and open dialogue, participants agreed: SAI independence is strengthened when institutions build trust, engage stakeholders, and collaborate across borders.
Another key takeaway: SAIs can’t advance independence alone. Parliaments, especially their oversight committees, play a critical role in ensuring SAIs are not just legally independent but also empowered to act.
His Excellency Faisal Al-Fayez, President of the Jordanian Senate, called for stronger partnerships between SAIs and lawmakers. “Oversight is a shared responsibility,” he said. “SAIs are our strongest partners in protecting public funds and public trust.” He described SAIs as “a shield to protect citizens, a sword to combat corruption, and a bridge to achieve justice and development.”
In one conversation, parliamentarians and SAI leaders discussed how mutual respect and information-sharing help create enabling environments. Pictured centre, Moroccan MP The Honourable Mohamed Hajira emphasised the importance of real-world exchanges: “When parliamentarians and oversight experts come together in spaces like this, we exchange practical experience that helps us strengthen what works and address what doesn’t.”
These unique and cross-cutting conversations are essential to building trust and protecting SAIs from informal pressures.
SAI Jordan used the symposium to highlight its leadership in promoting independence, including spotlighting its new and recently launched strategic plan focused on development and transparency.
“Independence is vital for the Audit Bureau to carry out its role fully and without influence,” said President Al-Hamadeen, pictured above. “Just as important is how society perceives our value.” Indeed, public trust and relevance were recurring themes throughout the event’s session.
Hosting the symposium was part of Jordan’s effort to show how SAIs can gain strength by being visible, understood, and connected to the people they serve. “When our work reflects public interest, it becomes sustainable and impactful,” Al-Hamadeen added.
This message resonated with ARABOSAI, which continues to promote regional cooperation among its 22 member institutions. “We want our institutions to be strong, capable, and impactful,” said Her Excellency Fadhila Gharigouri, Acting Secretary General, ARABOSAI General Secretariat and representative of SAI Tunisia (pictured speaking above). “By sharing experiences and learning together, we build stronger institutions that deliver real value for citizens.”
For participants, it was clear: regional collaboration isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Not just a one-time forum for reflection, the IDI-ARABOSAI Symposium on SAI Independence will continue to serve as a catalyst for future action. Meeting yearly, this convening enables dialogue on a key topic for the region. As IDI Deputy Director General Ola Hoem observed, “Independence is not a checkbox. It’s a continuous negotiation between what’s written, what’s possible, and what’s practised. Here in this space, we welcome that conversation.”
Additionally, these discussions are laying important groundwork for one of IDI’s other initiatives—the Global Project on SAI Independence. The multi-year partnership, co-led with OECD, aims to revolutionise the way we advocate for the independence of SAIs by collecting data on the informal factors that shape their operations and effectiveness. Part of regional data collection efforts, the symposium’s growing momentum is a powerful example of how global principles take shape in local contexts.
Throughout 2025, the Global Project will continue to build on this progress, through country visits, surveys and other regional events— connecting lessons gained with other quantitative data and global advocacy efforts. Working with OECD, pictured above, the INTOSAI General Secretariat and other leading accountability partners, IDI will publish its final report on the impact of informal factors on governance in 2026.
Closing the symposium, participants left with a shared recognition that independence is built on resilience, trust, and the ability to provide effective oversight. The path forward may pose challenges, but Arab SAIs show commitment to a clear message: pursuing change, one relationship, one reform, and one conversation at a time, is worth it for lasting impact.
IDI and OECD recently hosted a high-level meeting and planning session in Paris to advance the Global Project on SAI Independence. The event, held from 27-29 January, 2025 brought together key stakeholders, including INTOSAI leadership, international organisations, and Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs), to discuss the evolving challenges to SAI independence and the critical role of collaboration in safeguarding public accountability.
The high-level meeting underscored the urgency of protecting SAIs from undue influence, emphasising that independence is not just a legal matter but a dynamic process influenced by political, institutional, and societal factors. Representatives from INTOSAI, OECD, the World Bank, and key national audit institutions highlighted the need for a more comprehensive approach that considers both formal and informal influences on SAI independence.
Gene Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States, reinforced that defending SAI independence requires more than legal frameworks—it is a relationship-driven effort that depends on strong alliances at both the country and global levels. Similarly, Karl Eirik Schjøtt-Pedersen, Auditor General of Norway and Chair of the IDI Governing Board, highlighted data from IDI and the World Bank showing that SAIs worldwide face increasing threats to their ability to operate independently. In addition, Dr. Hussam Alangari, Chair of the Policy, Finance and Administration Committee, as well as President of the General Court of Audit of Saudi Arabia, highlighted that the importance of SAI independence has been globally recognised since the Lima Declaration over 40 years ago, and remains an ongoing process that SAIs continue to strive for.
The Global Project, a joint initiative between IDI and OECD, aims to address these challenges by identifying the informal factors that shape SAI independence, such as political dynamics, organisational culture, and stakeholder interactions. By leveraging research and strategic advocacy, the project seeks to provide actionable recommendations for strengthening SAI independence beyond legal provisions.
Following the discussions, the project will now enter its next phase: conducting in-depth country visits to identify good practices and assess the real-world challenges SAIs face. These visits will gather critical insights on how SAIs navigate informal pressures and the mechanisms that help sustain their independence. Representatives from Jamaica, Liberia, Jordan, Morocco, and Spain have committed to participating in this effort, alongside key international partners such as the INTOSAI General Secretariat, the Saudi Arabian General Court of Audit (GAC), the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and the World Bank.
An IDI-OECD report summarising the findings will be developed, offering a set of recommendations based on international best practices. This report will serve as a valuable resource for SAIs and their allies, helping to shape future advocacy efforts and policy decisions to protect audit institutions from political and institutional pressures.
Beyond shaping the content of the Global Project, the meeting in Paris reinforced the importance of global partnerships in advancing SAI independence. A notable highlight was a meeting between US Comptroller General Gene Dodaro and the OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann, further strengthening collaboration between key international actors.
The Global Project is not just about research—it is about fostering a movement that mobilises governments, oversight bodies, and civil society to champion SAI independence as a pillar of good governance. Through continued dialogue, data-driven advocacy, and strategic alliances, the project aims to ensure that SAIs worldwide can fulfil their crucial role in holding power to account.
As the project progresses, IDI and OECD will continue engaging with stakeholders to drive meaningful change. Stay tuned for updates as we move forward in this collective effort to enhance public sector accountability and governance.
The five-day Experience and Lessons Learned Workshop on “Enhancing Transparency and Accountability Through Collaboration,” held from October 14-18, 2024, in Lusaka, Zambia, concluded with promising outcomes for the future of public financial management in the region.
Co-hosted by the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) and the Office of the Auditor General of Zambia, with support from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, the event brought together participants from supreme audit institutions (SAIs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) to strengthen collaboration in the audit process. Key participants included the Office of the Auditor General of Zambia, Transparency International Zambia, the National Audit Office of Malawi, and the African Institute of Corporate Citizenship (AICC). Speakers from countries with successful Citizen Participatory Audit (CPA) models, such as Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria, joined to provide their expertise.
The event focused on fostering a greater understanding of how SAIs and CSOs can collaborate effectively in the audit process, with a particular emphasis on promoting transparency and accountability in public resource management. Participants explored the vital role of both SAIs and CSOs in the PFM cycle and discussed practical mechanisms for collaboration, including legal and institutional considerations.
In his opening remarks, Ola Hoem, IDI’s Deputy Director General, emphasised the importance of citizen engagement: “This workshop presents a tremendous opportunity for us to develop actionable strategies that aim at strengthening citizen participation in the audit process, particularly for Malawi and Zambia.” Hoem also acknowledged the key contributions of SAIs from Kenya and Uganda, along with CSO partners like Transparency International and PLSI, whose insights would be instrumental in enriching the discussions.The Auditor General of Zambia also highlighted the crucial role of CSOs in holding government institutions accountable, stating, “The partnership between my office and civil society organisations is not just beneficial; it is crucial in the PFM cycle. CSOs serve as the watchdogs of governance, ensuring public resources are managed effectively and transparently.”
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in interactive sessions aimed at developing a draft CPA framework, which is intended to guide future collaborations between SAIs and CSOs in Zambia and Malawi. Group work sessions led by experts from PLSI, Transparency International Kenya, and SAIs from Kenya and Uganda were pivotal in shaping the framework’s foundational elements. PLSI showcased its pioneering work in Nigeria, where it has successfully used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance civic participation in audits. The “Value for Money” case study provided good insight into how technology can drive citizen participation and accountability. PLSI also pledged to support the development of CPA frameworks in Zambia and Malawi, with an emphasis on adapting successful models to local contexts.
As the workshop concluded, participants expressed a strong commitment to refining and implementing the CPA framework. The closing discussions reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration between SAIs and CSOs, and how these partnerships could contribute to better governance across the region. The Auditor General of Zambia captured the sentiment of the event: “This workshop is a pivotal moment for us. The knowledge and strategies we gain here will feed into our goal of creating a comprehensive citizen participatory audit framework that strengthens accountability and transparency in Zambia.”
This workshop represents a step forward in IDI’s mission to empower SAIs and CSOs to work together in fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance across Africa, especially through the targeted activities featured in initiatives like SPMR ACT and the CADRE Project. The collaboration connected accountability actors from all over the continent and began building the foundation for long-term partnerships that can continue to impact public financial management positively in the coming years.
On October 15, 2024, the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) and the Audit Office of Cyprus co-organised the High-level Event on SAI Independence in Pafos, Cyprus.
Welcoming representatives from supreme audit institutions (SAIs) across the European Union, the event focused on the vital role of SAI independence in promoting good governance, better oversight and the upholding of the rule of law.
The day began with a welcome address from Andreas Papaconstantinou, Auditor General of SAI Cyprus, followed by a dynamic program of presentations and discussions. Key moments from IDI’s participation at the event are featured below:
IDI played a central role in the discussions while presenting its latest Global Stocktaking Report (GSR) and provided expert insights on the SAI Rapid Advocacy Mechanism (SIRAM) process—IDI’s response tool for addressing threats to the independence of oversight institutions. Einar Gørrissen, Director General of IDI, presented findings from the 2023 GSR, focusing on the current state of SAI independence worldwide, not least the rising threats faced in European countries. The insights highlighted both the progress and the continuing challenges SAIs face in achieving and maintaining autonomy.
Additionally, Freddy Ndjemba (pictured above), Senior Manager at IDI, provided an in-depth look at SIRAM, sharing case studies and lessons learned from various countries. With growing democratic backsliding, these insights underscored the increasing need for international collaboration to protect and enhance the independence of SAIs.
Another key message throughout the event was the critical importance of maintaining SAI independence in accordance with international frameworks and EU law. Androulla Ioannou, Deputy Director for the Joint Audit Directorate for Cohesion at the European Commission, emphasised that independent SAIs are essential for safeguarding governance and the rule of law within the European Union. She noted that independence is not only a value, but a legal principle embedded within the EU Acquis Communautaire, which underpins the EU’s legal framework.
Through IDI’s interventions and dialogue with key partners, many participants from SAIs across Europe gained valuable new knowledge on how to strengthen their independence and enhance their roles as guardians of accountability.
One of the key sessions of the event focused on the current state of SAI independence in the EU and ongoing global efforts to strengthen it. A highlight included a presentation by Markella Koukkoulli from the Audit Office of Cyprus, who shared the results of a recent survey on SAI independence in EU countries. The survey examined the involvement of SAIs in the European Commission’s Annual Rule of Law Report and revealed areas where stronger participation could strengthen governance. This was followed by a presentation from Ms. Bianca Brétéché of OECD/SIGMA, who discussed the ongoing IDI-OECD Global Project on SAI Independence. The project, a collaboration between IDI, OECD, and IMF, aims to bolster SAI independence globally by addressing common challenges and promoting best practices.
Ensuring compliance with INTOSAI Principles is crucial to build efforts to protect SAI independence going forward. At the event, discussions focused on the alignment of EU SAIs with INTOSAI principles and the need to ensure compliance with international standards. Participants explored practical ways to assess and improve the compliance of SAI legislation with these principles as stipulated by the EU Acquis Communautaire.
In a step forward for the SAI community, there was agreement to explore the possibility of systematising EU SAIs’ involvement in the preparation of the European Commission’s Annual Rule of Law Report. By formalising this participation, the EU can better ensure that independent SAIs play a central role in upholding transparency and accountability across member states.
The conclusion of the event made one priority clear: strengthening the independence of SAIs remains critical to advancing good governance and the rule of law in Europe. The High-Level Event in Cyprus provided a platform for SAIs and EU institutions to come together, share insights, and commit to further collaboration in promoting SAI independence. With the leadership of IDI, the Audit Office of Cyprus, and other key partners, this event marked an important step in ensuring that independent SAIs continue to serve as pillars of accountability across EUROSAI and the European Union.
This week, the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) convened the second planning meeting of the Global Project on Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) Independence in Vienna, Austria. Hosted by the INTOSAI General Secretariat, this gathering brought together a powerful coalition of international partners, including SECO, OECD, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), all of whom share a common goal: advancing the independence of SAIs to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance globally. This milestone planning meeting marked a critical step forward in collaborating on a more transparent and accountable future at the global level.
The meeting served as an important milestone in this global effort, reinforcing the critical role that SAI independence plays in ensuring that public financial management is conducted with integrity and accountability. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the autonomy of SAIs, recognising that independent oversight is essential for holding governments accountable, promoting the efficient use of public resources and building public trust in institutions. This collaborative initiative, which aims to develop internationally recognised principles for SAI independence, reflects the growing consensus among stakeholders that stronger governance systems are key to fostering sustainable development and preventing the misuse of public funds. The meeting emphasised that the protection and enhancement of SAI independence is not just a technical issue but a vital component of democratic governance and the rule of law.
At the heart of the Global Project is the power of partnerships. The diverse group of international organisations, government entities and financial institutions represented at the Vienna meeting demonstrated the value of collective action in advocating for meaningful reforms. The project has created a platform where expertise, resources and perspectives can be combined to tackle common challenges in promoting and advocating for supreme audit institutions and their independence. Each partner brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, enriching the project’s approach and broadening its impact. Whether through supporting the development of global principles, facilitating knowledge exchange, or mobilising resources, these partnerships exemplify the strength of collaboration in driving long-lasting, systemic change. Among the participants, Michael Hix, Director of International Relations at GAO noted, “Thanks to this incredible coalition of stakeholders, it is possible for us to address threats to independence and do a lot of good for accountability at the global level.”
Beyond technical discussions, the meeting also underscored the importance of advocacy. Promoting SAI independence requires a unified voice, both within countries and on the global stage. Through sustained advocacy efforts, stakeholders aim to raise awareness about the need for independent auditing institutions that can provide transparent oversight of government finances. Strong advocacy ensures that the issue of SAI independence remains a priority for policymakers, international organisations and civil society. The project partners are committed to amplifying this message in various forums and encouraging the adoption of reforms that will enhance the capacity of SAIs to function free of interference or influence.
Additioanlly, the Vienna meeting was not just about laying the groundwork for technical principles, but also about rallying support for the broader cause of transparency in public financial management. The ongoing work of this project will help ensure that SAIs are equipped to provide independent oversight and hold governments accountable for how they manage public funds. As the project moves forward, the IDI and its partners will conduct regional consultations, knowledge-sharing workshops, and targeted advocacy campaigns with SAIs and other stakeholders. By engaging actors from diverse regions and sectors, the project will generate momentum, broadening the global spotlight on good governance.
As the Global Project progresses, the continued collaboration and commitment of all partners will be key to achieving lasting change. Together, IDI and its collaborators are championing the cause of SAI independence, not just as a goal in itself, but as a vital means to ensure that governments remain accountable to their citizens and manage public resources responsibly.
This initiative is poised to make a meaningful contribution to the global governance landscape and has the potential to have a lasting impact on public financial management around the world. Stay tuned as we continue to push forward on the Global Project and read about the latest developments here: https://www.idi.no/work-streams/independent-sais/global-project-on-sai-independence
The IDI Strengthening Legal Units within SAIs (LEG SAI) initiative examines the role of legal support within SAIs and how it can contribute to enhanced SAI independence. The initiative hosted a workshop with a group of legal advisors from the AFROSAI-E region to share experiences and best practices in their profession, including the production of a resource kit to enhance support for SAI Independence.
In advance of the workshop, IDI commissioned research to better understand the function and role for legal advisors to SAIs. The research findings indicated that the majority of SAIs in the AFROSAI-E region have internal legal staff that are instrumental in promoting organisational, functional, and financial independence of SAIs. Their main functions include managing staff-related matters, overseeing contracts and procurement, advising on governance arrangements, monitoring SAI legislation, interpreting public financial management laws during audits, handling litigation matters, and engaging with external stakeholders.
Discussion highlights from the workshop include:
Workshop participants also dedicated a specific discussion to the Model Public Audit Act, which was developed by the AFROSAI-E Secretariat.
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The (IDI) the INTOSAI General Secretariat have released a joint briefing note to express their concern and position on the recent developments regarding the removal process of Sierra Leone’s Auditor General, Mrs. Lara Taylor-Pearce, and Deputy Auditor General, Mr. Tamba Momoh.
The INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) and the INTOSAI General Secretariat have released a joint briefing note to express their concern and position on the recent developments regarding the removal process of Sierra Leone’s Auditor General, Mrs. Lara Taylor-Pearce, and Deputy Auditor General, Mr. Tamba Momoh. The decision to progress the case to Parliament, announced on 9 July 2024, marks an unprecedented and concerning move within Sierra Leone’s democratic landscape and a step back in safeguarding the independence of the Supreme Audit Insitution in the country.
On 9 July, the Office of the Press Secretary of Sierra Leone provided an update on the Tribunal Report concerning the suspended Auditor General and Deputy Auditor General. Stating therein that the President of Sierra Leone had accepted the Tribunal’s recommendations, including the removal of both officials. The President has now directed the Attorney-General and the Minister of Justice to initiate the necessary procedures for Mrs. Taylor-Pearce’s removal, including taking the process under Parliamentary review, and instructed the Audit Service Board to act similarly for Mr. Momoh.
This decision is historic, as it is the first time such a procedure has been applied to a public official since Sierra Leone’s transition to democracy. Additionally, Mrs. Taylor-Pearce has a highly respected reputation within the INTOSAI community and beyond, and is recognised globally for her integrity and professionalism.
The INTOSAI General Secretariat and IDI express significant concerns over the implications of this removal process, particularly as it poses a real and significant threat to the SAI’s independence in Sierra Leone. The Audit Service of Sierra Leone (ASSL) has been a pillar of accountability within the country. Therefore, the removal of its leadership could deter future auditors from acting independently, fearing similarly motivated actions. This not only undermines the establishment of a robust audit and oversight function in Sierra Leone, but also could deter other oversight actors within the accountability ecosystem from enforcing institutional mandates.
Moreover, the stability of an independent audit function is crucial for the trust placed in government systems by citizens, development partners and financial institutions. The outcome of this case will have far-reaching repercussions beyond Sierra Leone, which could impact the global community of external auditors and governance institutions. If you would like to read more in-depth information on the developments and implications of the case, please review IDI and INTOSAI’s jointly published Information Brief.
INTOSAI has been actively monitoring this case since 2021, having issued statements of concern during the indefinite suspension of the Auditor General and Deputy Auditor General. IDI’s released analysis and expert opinion highlighted significant deviations from constitutional processes, and during the Tribunal proceedings, IDI provided expert interpretations related to the auditing standards and alleged professional misconduct. Going forward, the INTOSAI General Secretariat and IDI emphasise the necessity for a transparent and timely Parliamentary process. The allegations against Mrs. Taylor-Pearce and Mr. Momoh, along with the Tribunal’s Report, should be made public to ensure the credibility and legitimacy of the proceedings. This transparency is essential for maintaining trust and accountability in Sierra Leone’s governance.
As this unprecedented case reaches its final stages, the INTOSAI General Secretariat and IDI call on all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, development partners, and the media, to stay informed. The global audit community must ensure that due process is observed and that Sierra Leone’s Parliament exercises its duties with due care and objectivity.
Would you like to get in touch conerning the developments of the case? Contact Mr. Freddy Yves Ndjemba at independent.sai@idi.no for further information and follow-up.
On July 11-12, 2024, the Supreme Audit Institution of Mexico hosted the inaugural meeting of the OLACEFS Reference Group on SAI Independence in Mexico City. The event was a significant milestone, gathering leaders and representatives from Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) across the OLACEFS region, along with key stakeholders from the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI). The focus of the meeting was to address the pressing issue of SAI independence through both reactive and proactive measures, offering a platform for discussion, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning.
A success, the inaugural meeting of the OLACEFS Reference Group on SAI Independence laid a strong foundation for future efforts. Participants left with a deeper understanding of IDI’s tools and initiatives available to support SAI independence, as well as a renewed commitment to collaborative action. As threats to SAI independence continue to rise, the importance of such gatherings cannot be overstated. The OLACEFS region, along with IDI, will continue to build on this momentum and leverage shared knowledge to uphold the principles of independence and accountability.
Previously, IDI has supported OLACEFS’ SAIs through various tools and activities, employing both reactive and proactive approaches to SAI independence. Since 2018, IDI has utilised the SAI Independence Rapid Advocacy Mechanism (SIRAM) to aid SAIs facing threats to their independence from political actors. The mechanism has addressed issues such as delays in the appointment process, dismissal of SAI heads, restrictions on access to information, and unjustified budget cuts. As shown in the latest IDI Global Stocktaking Report from 2023, an increase in reported threats to SAI independence highlights a concerning trend tied to broader global issues like the decline of the rule of law and shrinking civic space.
To counter these threats, IDI has also launched the Global Project on SAI Independence in collaboration with the OECD, the World Bank and and the International Monetary Fund. This project focuses on analysing informal factors affecting SAI independence from the perspectives of the Executive and Legislative branches. Additionally, the LEG SAI initiative supports legal units within SAIs, while workshops designed to strengthen collaboration between SAIs and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) aim to enhance public accountability. During the Reference Group meeting, both programmes and their affiliated advocacy approaches were presented to and discussed amongst SAI representatives and advocates for independence.
The Reference Group led by IDI and OLACEFS is similar to other successful, regionally-based SAI Independence Reference Groups, such as in EUROSAI. The primary objectives of the OLACEFS Reference Group are to:
The constitution of the reference group was approved by the XXXII General Assembly of OLACEFS, comprising the Presidency, Technical Secretariat, Presidency of EFSUR, and the Presidency of OCCEFS. The inaugural meeting invited all regional members following the EUROSAI-OLACEFS joint conference held earlier in the week. Please read below to get a recap and the key takeaways from the reference group meeting.
The first day commenced with inaugural messages from representatives of the IDI, OLACEFS General Secretariat, and OLACEFS Presidency, setting the tone for the event and outlining the objectives and goals of the reference group.
The second day focused on global initiatives and specific programmes designed to support SAI independence.
The meeting concluded with a closing message from the OLACEFS Presidency, encapsulating the event’s key takeaways and reiterating the commitment to safeguarding SAI independence. The collaborative efforts and shared experiences of the participants underscored the importance of regional solidarity and proactive advocacy in the face of growing challenges.
The extractives sector plays a significant role in the global economy and, for many developing countries, the effective oversight and resource management of these industries can positively contribute to national development through fiscal revenues, supply chain and employment opportunities, and social investments.
Today, INTOSAI Development Initiative releases its new study, “Strengthening Public Oversight of Extractive Industries through Supreme Audit Institutions: Challenges and Opportunities” to provide an overview of how SAIs can increase extractive industry oversight activities at the country and global level. The study includes findings and raises practical insights regarding SAIs’ legal frameworks and their application to INTOSAI’ independence principles. In addition, the conclusions and appendices address concrete actions SAIs and other stakeholders can take to improve extractive sector governance and identify key partners for taking action using a multistakeholder approach.
The study, which collected responses from 25 SAIs across three different INTOSAI regions, shares solutions and action points tailored to SAIs and actors in the accountability ecosystem to foster better collaboration and increased transparency of oil, gas, mining, and broader extractive industries- including entry points for SAIs to partner with EI transparency leader, Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. Critically, SAI Independence must be protected and maintained so that SAIs can effectively carry out their mandate as the main oversight actors of state and private sector-driven extractive activities.
By reading this study, one will gain a better understanding of 1) the opportunities and challenges SAIs’ face in the technical management and follow-through of extractive industry auditing, 2) how to leverage and build partnerships for improved oversight, and 3) the benefits of creating coalitions to advocate for and strengthen SAI independence.
IDI’s SAI Independence team attended a number of events and meetings in the Hague in May, discussing the significance of independent SAIs in strong public governance and accountability.
1. World Justice Forum
The World Justice Forum is the premier international event for the rule of law. Global and community leaders gather in the Hague and online to share insights, strategies and solutions for advancing justice, opportunity and peace.
At the invitation of the WJF, IDI’s SAI Independence team hosted a session entitled ‘Challenges and Trends for Accountability Institutions’, with a panel discussion featuring Silke Steiner from INTOSAI’s General Secretariat, Jorum Duri of Transparency International, Tim Steele of UNODC and Ewout Irrgang representing the Netherlands Court of Audits.
‘Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) are key actors that link the priorities of society and state accountability processes. A necessary condietion for SAIs to be valuable is that they are independent from external interferences.’ Silke Steiner.
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Read more about the WJF:
2. SAI Independence Discussions with Global Partners
As part of IDI’s strategy to advocate for SAI independence through partnership-building with relevant global actors, Ola Hoem, Deputy General Director and Freddy Ndjemba and Benjamin Fuentes from the SAI Independence workstream held a number of conversations with other agencies and organisations.
Lively and informative bilateral discussions took place with the Secretariats of the World Justice Project, Transparency International and INTOSAI, and with the SAIs of the Netherlands and Libya.
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Find out more about the meetings:
Independence Discussions at the Hague 2022
