A worldwide search has launchedfor volunteers to serve as members on the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB), an independent standard-setting body that serves the public interest by setting high-quality standards for use by public sector entities globally in the preparation of general purpose financial reports.
The initial-term of service for these volunteers will span three years, commencing on January 1, 2025. Candidates will ideally have a public sector background, with experience in standard setting and/or sustainability reporting. Out for comment now, the IPSASB’s draft Strategy and Work Program 2024-2028 proposes a shift from developing new standards towards maintaining the IPSAS suite of standards, and embeds the Board’s work in public sector sustainability reporting. Volunteers who can contribute to the changing scope and focus of the Board’s work are especially sought. English proficiency (both written and oral) is essential, as this is the language in which the IPSASB operates, although nominations from jurisdictions where English is not the predominant language, are encouraged.
Nominations from all regions of the world are encouraged, with a particular emphasis on qualified candidates from both Asia and Europe. Nominations from a wide range of relevant backgrounds are sought, including, but not limited to, candidates from:
Users of general purpose financial reports, such as parliamentarians, budget offices, and credit-rating agencies;
Ministries of Finance, Accountants General Departments, and other preparers of accrual-based financial statements and/or public sector sustainability reports. With the increasing implementation of IPSAS, candidates from jurisdictions that are transitioning to or have already implemented IPSAS are particularly encouraged; and
Public sector external auditors.
“To develop high-quality international standards and effectively promote IPSAS adoption, IPSASB volunteers need diverse backgrounds and skillsets,” said Ian Carruthers, IPSASB Chair. “With the continuing global transition to accrual IPSAS, I strongly encourage jurisdictions that are using IPSAS, or actively transitioning to IPSAS, to nominate candidates. This term will be during a landmark period of the IPSASB’s strategy and work program as it undertakes the development of sustainability standards in addition to its ongoing financial reporting activities. Engaging in this important work provides an opportunity to make a significant impact, while providing valuable experience that benefits the volunteer and its supporting organization.”
All stakeholders, including the general public, as well as International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) member organizations, the Forum of Firms, governments, and other organizations are invited to nominate candidates. Global stakeholder participation is crucial to shaping the future of international public sector standards.
The deadline for submitting applications is January 31, 2024. Please see the Call for Nominations for more details and information on how to submit an application.
About the IPSASB
The International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB) works to strengthen public financial management globally through developing and maintaining accrual-based International Public Sector Accounting Standards® (IPSAS®) and other high-quality financial reporting guidance for use by governments and other public sector entities. It also raises awareness of IPSAS and the benefits of accrual adoption. The Board receives support from the Asian Development Bank, the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, the New Zealand External Reporting Board, and the government of Canada. The structures and processes that support the operations of the IPSASB are facilitated by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please go to permissions or contact permissions@ifac.org.
About the Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee is responsible for the selection process for IPSASB membership. The Public Interest Committee oversees the nominations process for IPSASB and provides its advice. The International Federation of Accountants® (IFAC®) Board approves the IPSASB composition. To learn more about the Nominating Committee, please visit IFAC website.
About the Public Interest Committee
The governance and standard-setting activities of the IPSASB are overseen by the Public Interest Committee (PIC), to ensure that they follow due process and reflect the public interest. The PIC is comprised of individuals with expertise in public sector or financial reporting, and professional engagement in organizations that have an interest in promoting high-quality and internationally comparable financial information.
A worldwide search has launched for volunteers to serve as members on the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (IPSASB), an independent standard-setting body that serves the public interest by setting high-quality standards for use by public sector entities globally in the preparation of general purpose financial reports.
International Public Sector Accounting Standard® (IPSAS®) IPSAS 49, Retirement Benefit Plans establishes comprehensive accounting and reporting requirements for the financial statements of retirement benefit plans, with participants comprising current and former public sector employees and other eligible members.
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ED 85 proposes minor improvements to accrual basis IPSAS that arise through publications of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The proposals in this exposure draft may be modified in light of comments received before being issued in final form. Comments are due by December 18, 2023 and must be submitted in English.
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Exposure Draft (ED) 85, Improvements to IPSAS, 2023 proposes minor improvements to accrual basis IPSAS that arise through publications of the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The proposals in this exposure draft may be modified in light of comments received before being issued in final form. Comments are due by December 18, 2023 and must be submitted in English.
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