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How do you support an audit institution in a country where operational budgets are unreliable, salaries are delayed, and the political landscape is fragile?

Join us at the upcoming INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) and INTOSAI Working Group on Public Debt (INTOSAI WGPD) webinar this 14 May 2025

Leaders from six SAIs participating in the IDI–ADB Initiative Sustainable Performance Audit Practices in Asia and the Pacific gathered in Bangkok for the third-and-final Leadership Forum under the Initiative.

What does it take to build a public institution that truly serves people? For Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in the Caribbean, the answer starts with a powerful yet often overlooked foundation: a strong, inclusive, and values-based approach to human resources.

From 7–11 April 2025, leaders from six CAROSAI member SAIs gathered in Georgetown, Guyana for a milestone workshop under the TOGETHER Initiative—and for some of them, it was the first formal training they had ever received on human resource management (HRM). 

The event was more than a learning opportunity. It marked a turning point in how these institutions invest in their people—to strengthen their systems, support independence, and deliver better results for citizens.

More Than a Workshop: A Transformational First for SAIs in the Region

For SAIs from Belize, Jamaica, Guyana, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Suriname, this wasn’t just another week of meetings. It was a first-of-its-kind experience: five days of deep reflection, practical planning, and peer exchange focused entirely on building better HR systems.

The road to Georgetown began months earlier, with a six-week eLearning course on HRM fundamentals and an intensive diagnostic process to help each SAI assess its current practices. Once in Guyana, teams rolled up their sleeves to analyse the findings, define challenges, and co-create action plans grounded in their realities.

For some participants, it was a revelation. “My HRM vision for my SAI, especially after this workshop, is to create an inclusive and adapted working environment to generate organisational success—but also to inspire personal growth,” said Maria Rodriguez, Auditor General of Belize.

Why HR Matters for SAI Independence

Across the Caribbean, SAIs face similar challenges when it comes to building people-centred institutions: limited autonomy, gaps in professional development, and the need for tailored approaches in small or resource-constrained contexts.

“One of the biggest HRM challenges discussed during this workshop—and faced by SAIs in the region—is the question of organisational autonomy,” said Shamar Richard, Chief Internal Auditor at Jamaica’s Auditor General Department. These challenges directly impact institutional independence—a critical safeguard for effective, unbiased public oversight.

And yet, there’s reason for optimism. In Suriname, recent improvements in SAI independence are opening the door to meaningful change. “Based on my conversations and interactions with peers at this workshop, SAIs in the CAROSAI region emphasise training and professional development as the most common priority area in their HRM approaches,” shared Nelson Chen Poun, Director of Corporate Services at Suriname’s SAI. His insight reflects a wider commitment: investing in people as a strategic choice to strengthen institutional credibility and resilience.

Collaboration as a Catalyst

The TOGETHER Initiative was initially launched in English-speaking SAIs in 2022 and has since expanded to the CREFIAF and ARABOSAI regions. With the Caribbean now actively engaged, these institutions are bringing unique perspectives to global conversations about governance, helping shape a sustainable, context-specific model for HRM reform in audit institutions.

The workshop, part of the initiative’s ongoing global roll-out, drew its strength not just from the curriculum, but from the participants themselves. Peer support—particularly from SAI Jamaica—helped elevate the experience into a collaborative space where shared challenges became shared solutions.

The Caribbean’s regional identity, shaped by diversity and resilience, was front and centre throughout the week. Participants explored how international HRM best practices could be translated to fit their unique governance environments—especially for small island and coastal states, where public institutions must do more with less.

With support from the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) and funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the TOGETHER Initiative will now accompany several SAIs as they move into implementation—helping them turn their HRM visions into institutional reality.

The Bigger Picture: People at the Heart of Public Institutions

Ultimately, this workshop was about more than human resources. It was about recognising that institutions are only as strong as the people who serve in them. When SAIs invest in their staff—through inclusive systems, meaningful development, and ethical leadership—they not only improve internal performance. They also take major strides toward ensuring their independence and long-term sustainability.

By taking this bold step, CAROSAI SAIs are helping shape a new regional model of governance—one that’s people-first, context-aware, and globally relevant. And in doing so, they’re not just building better audit institutions, they’re building trust.

Would you like to learn more about how to participate in the TOGETHER Initiatve? Learn more about it on our webpage.

In a world of mounting global risks—where democracy and fiscal stability are constantly tested—leadership in public institutions has never been more crucial.

In March and April 2025, Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) leaders from across the globe gathered in Madrid for IDI’s Mastery—a high-level leadership initiative designed to stretch the thinking, strategy, and solidarity of those at the helm of national audit offices.

Hosted with the Tribunal de Cuentas de España (SAI Spain) and the Autonomous University of Madrid, the initiative brought together seasoned and newly appointed Heads of SAIs for two weeks of exchange, introspection, and insight. It was made possible with generous support from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), a key partner in IDI’s efforts to future-proof public sector oversight.

What unfolded was more than just a learning experience—it was a call to lead.

Leading Through Complexity

In an era of overlapping crises—climate, conflict, and economic volatility—SAIs are expected to do more than audit. They are called to safeguard public trust, hold governments accountable, and contribute to national resilience.

In the first Mastery Class, Leading SAIs in a Global Context, SAI leaders paused to reflect on these challenges and opportunities with insights from experts across the governance landscape. Sessions featured the OECD and the World Bank’s PEFA Secretariat speaking on Public Financial Management, the International Monetary Fund covering fiscal risks, and Transparency International Spain touching upon corruption and integrity systems—connecting global trends with local realities.

“The topic of this Masterclass—leading in a global context—everyone in leadership is looking for this,” said Dasho Tashi, Auditor General of Bhutan. “Things are changing all around and the tone starts at the top. To bring any change, it’s the leader. The leadership is the engine that drives an SAI.”

A standout moment was the discussion on SAIs’ roles in supporting judicial accountability. Leaders examined how audit findings can prompt legal action—if institutions are credible, coordinated, and independent.

Throughout the masterclass, participants examined what it means to lead institutions that must be both watchdogs and agents of change. Conversations centred on building cultures of purpose, cultivating internal ethics, developing strong bonds with stakeholders, and assuming a role as educators on transparency and accountability.

“Leadership is so important for an SAI because it builds public trust,” shared Brenda Neeley, Auditor General of the Bahamas. “You lead by example, with integrity, good ethics, accountability, and good governance as you advance the scene for your country.”

The dialogue sparked reflection on how SAIs can evolve to meet the expectations of a changing world—and what that demands from their leaders.

“Irrespective of your context—big or small SAI, developed or developing country—this is the programme to join,” said Nancy Gathungu, Auditor-General of Kenya. “Change is a constant, and you need to be equipped for it.”

Building the Network

The second week, Leadership and Leveraging the Global SAI Network, shifted focus to the community that supports SAI leadership. Designed for newly appointed Heads of SAIs, this segment offered a pilot crash course in navigating—and contributing to—the global INTOSAI framework.

Held at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, the programme introduced participants to professional standards, peer support systems, and global strategic priorities. More importantly, it built connection.

Keynotes from leaders like Vitor Gaspar (IMF) and Ester Marco Peñas (UAM) underscored how global norms and partnerships can strengthen domestic oversight. Maria Dolores Genaro gave a vivid illustration on the importance of change management through presenting the transformation journey of SAI Spain. Breakout sessions also explored how strategic communications can help SAIs engage citizens, parliaments, and donors, and highlighted the value of internal stakeholder engagement in driving change. 

“This was a valuable experience—very relevant to strengthening our institution, empowering staff, and reinforcing our independence,” said Dr. Radhi Al-Hamadeen, President of the Audit Bureau of Jordan. “It will help us deliver more professional audits that serve the public interest.”

The sessions also highlighted practical tools and networks that can support smaller SAIs facing resource constraints.

“We often feel like we don’t have what we need, but this showed us the resources are out there,” said Finau Nagera, the Auditor-General of Fiji. “This is a chance to learn what trends matter, and how to connect with global partners to improve how we lead and operate.”

The peer learning environment proved to be one of the most energising elements. Several participants, just months into their roles, found it transformative to connect with others navigating similar transitions, challenges, and aspirations.

Participants also gained a deeper understanding of INTOSAI's structure and IDI’s role in supporting SAIs in areas such as independence, governance, strategic planning, digitalisation, climate, and sustainability.

The Mastery Philosophy

Mastery is not a training course. It’s a platform for reflection, transformation, and connection. It asks leaders: What kind of leader does my country need today? And who do I need to become to rise to that challenge?

It also embodies the belief that leadership development must be collective. In Madrid, SAIs from small island states to federal republics, from established audit institutions to those still emerging, came together. The diversity brought strength. The dialogue brought momentum.

With SECO’s support, IDI created an environment that honoured both the technical and the transformational—one where audit leaders were not just informed but inspired.

Looking Ahead: What’s next for the Mastery Initiative?

The message from Madrid was clear: this is just the beginning. Many participants left with action plans, reform ideas, and new allies to support their leadership journeys.

“For all the changes that need to happen in SAIs, leadership involvement is crucial,” said Ola Hoem, IDI’s Deputy Director General. “To operate and be independent as an SAI requires really strong leadership and high integrity—this program develops that.”

IDI will launch the next round of the Mastery Initiative in late 2025, with a fresh format, deeper engagement, and expanded collaboration with regional and global partners. Because in a world of growing uncertainty, we need leaders who are not just competent, but courageous change agents for accountability.

🎥 Stay tuned for our upcoming Mastery Initiative video and hear from the SAI leaders reshaping the future of accountability around the world.

Forty leaders and representatives from 14 Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) from Latin America, the Caribbean and Spain, along with key stakeholders met in Costa Rica, as they gathered for the High-Level Dialogue on Professionalissation for SAI Leadership and Key Stakeholders in OLACEFS. 

Last month, Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs), peer partners, and key development stakeholders gathered in Tashkent and online for the Strategic Readiness for Long-Term Impact: GSAI Phase 2 Workshop

The journey of six Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in the three-year-long IDI-ADB initiative, 'Sustainable Performance Audit Practices in Asia and the Pacific,' is forging ahead.

IDI Board approves 2024 Annual Report and way forward on IDI’s Professional Education for SAI Auditors (PESA) 

Investigative journalism plays a key role in exposing corruption, mismanagement, and inefficiencies in public financial management (PFM). The latest CADRE workshop in Zambia, held from March 18-20, 2025, brought together journalists, civil society organisations (CSOs), and other accountability actors to sharpen their skills and build stronger collaborations for transparency.

This three-day event built on a previous session in February, helping participants improve their investigative storytelling, data journalism, and advocacy strategies. The goal was clear: to strengthen journalists’ ability to hold power to account and engage the public in governance issues.

Sharpening Investigative Journalism Skills

The workshop focused on two main areas: investigative journalism techniques and collaboration with key stakeholders. Many participants had already started their investigations and used this opportunity to refine their findings and discuss challenges.

A key session involved peer and expert feedback on investigative stories. Journalists shared insights from their deep dives into PFM issues in Zambia, uncovering inconsistencies in government reports and tracking irregularities in public spending. These discussions not only strengthened their analytical skills but also fostered a sense of community and support among investigative reporters.

Another important aspect was the use of digital investigative tools. Participants explored:

• Metadata analysis to check document authenticity
• Google Alerts, InVid, and X (formerly Twitter) Advanced Search to track evolving stories
• Facebook Finder and Facebook Filter to verify sources
• Specialty databases like ICIJ Offshore Leaks, the Panama Papers database, and OCCRP project data to detect financial misconduct and corruption

Beyond Investigations: Advocacy and Public Engagement

Uncovering the truth is only the first step—making sure it reaches the right audiences is just as crucial. 

The workshop introduced advocacy strategies, helping participants learn how to:

• Frame investigative stories for greater impact
• Engage key audiences, from policymakers to grassroots groups
• Use digital storytelling to make reports clearer and more compelling

A highlight of the final day was the presentation of refined investigative reports, where journalists showcased their progress since the first workshop. Their findings on PFM mismanagement sparked discussions on how to push these stories forward—whether through media coverage, legal action, or CSO advocacy.

Building Momentum for Accountability

The CADRE workshop reinforced the importance of investigative journalism in good governance. By connecting journalists, CSOs, and accountability institutions, this initiative is driving a movement for better, more holistic transparency in Zambia.

Participants left with sharper skills, stronger networks, and a renewed commitment to holding those in power accountable. Moving forward, their investigations will continue to push for greater public awareness and institutional accountability in managing public funds.

At a time when misinformation spreads easily, initiatives like this workshop are more important than ever. Investigative journalism remains a powerful tool for ensuring public resources serve the people—not private interests. Through collaboration and innovation, the CADRE project continues to promote transparency and accountability to create lasting change.

Last week, legal experts and Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) representatives gathered in Malta for the third Legal Experts’ Meeting under the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) LEG SAI programme. Hosted by the National Audit Office of Malta (NAO), the workshop was a key step in advancing legal capacity within SAIs and reinforcing their independence.

Bringing together legal professionals from the SAIs of Czechia, Lesotho, Malta, Poland, and South Africa, the event focused on addressing key legal risks, best practices, and strategies to strengthen SAIs’ legal frameworks. The discussions highlighted the importance of legal expertise in safeguarding SAI independence, ensuring their ability to conduct audits without external interference and hold governments to account.

Key Outcomes from the Workshop

A major milestone from this meeting was the agreement on the structure and content of a Maturity Model. This tool will allow SAIs to assess their capacity to independently handle legal issues—both in conducting audits and in managing their operations. A more mature SAI will be better equipped to anticipate and respond to independence challenges, ensuring robust and legally sound decision-making that enhances institutional performance.

The group also agreed to develop a repository of good practices, which will serve as a key tool for knowledge-sharing among SAIs' legal advisers, regardless of their specific national contexts. This resource will help legal professionals exchange experiences and strengthen legal functions that support SAI independence and accountability.

Building on the Momentum

A dedicated session for NAO officials provided an opportunity for local and international experts to exchange insights on legal risks, independence principles, and ongoing global challenges affecting SAIs. IDI’s Luis Alonso Robas led an engaging discussion on the evolving legal landscape for SAIs, offering practical strategies to address threats to independence.

Beyond the formal discussions, the event fostered stronger professional networks, with participants engaging in informal exchanges while experiencing Malta’s rich history and hospitality.

IDI extends its gratitude to the National Audit Office Malta for hosting this important event and to all the participating SAIs and experts for their contributions. By continuing to strengthen legal frameworks and share best practices, we reinforce the foundations of independent, accountable, and effective Supreme Audit Institutions worldwide.