To read the press release in Arabic click document here. (19 KB) The purpose of the programme is high-quality audits of the sustainable development goals by SAIs such that the audits examine preparedness for implementation of key principles of Agenda 2030 i.e. integrated whole of government approach and leaving no one behind. In its current phase, the programme has four key result areas – advocacy and awareness raising, development of guidance for auditing preparedness, a community portal on auditing SDGs, and supporting a global cooperative performance audit programme on auditing preparedness and developing a compendium of audit findings on the audits conducted.
The programme was initiated in around 40 SAIs in developing countries but has attracted significant international interest, it is being scaled up to respond to demand from over 100 SAIs in all regions of the world. It will be delivered in English, Spanish, Arabic, and French.
GAB, on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is committed to supporting the implementation of the SDGs both within Saudi Arabia, and worldwide, to eradicate global poverty and ensure sustainable development. It is leading by example to encourage INTOSAI and SAIs to take a prominent role in this noble cause.
This programme is a partnership between IDI and INTOSAI KSC, which aims to contribute to the implementation of Crosscutting Priority 2 of the INTOSAI Strategic Plan. The IDI has also established a broad partnership, to advocate for and strengthen the role of SAIs in Auditing the SDGs, with SAIs, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, INTOSAI Regions, and global initiatives including the International Budget Partnership.
Background
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), officially known as “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” is the successor to the Millennium Development Goals. They provide an ambitious and long-term agenda on a comprehensive range of vital issues, encapsulated in 17 broad goals including ending poverty and hunger, improving health and education, making cities more sustainable, combating climate change, and protecting oceans and forests. The SDGs were developed by the UN, in partnership with 193 member countries and many global civil society groups.
The General Auditing Bureau of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is its Supreme Audit Institution, mandated to review and report on Government finances, and audit the efficiency and effectiveness of Government programmes. It plays a crucial role in supporting and monitoring the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) seeks to support Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in developing countries to strengthen their capacities and performance. It is established in Oslo under Norwegian Foundation Law.
It derives its mandate from the International Organisational of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). It provides support through global, regional and country level initiatives based on the needs expressed by each SAI. IDI began supporting SAIs in their role to audit the SDGs in 2016. For further information, please the following links:
• SDGs https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/
• General Audit Bureau, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia http://www.gab.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
• INTOSAI Development Initiative http://www.idi.no/en/
• Auditing the Sustainable Development Goals programme http://www.idi.no/en/idi-cpd/auditing-sustainable-development-goals-programme