The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) today released two new staff publications to enhance understanding and support global adoption and implementation of its ethics standard on Using the Work of an External Expert as well as the International Ethics Standards for Sustainability Assurance^TM (including International Independence Standards^TM) (IESSA^TM), both of which are effective from December 2026. These publications explain key aspects of the standard related to using the work of an external expert and the proportionality of the ethics and independence provisions for sustainability assurance in the IESSA.

1. Questions and Answers on Using the Work of an External Expert

This publication is relevant to all professional accountants, whether in business or in public practice, and sustainability assurance practitioners (SAPs). It provides answers to common questions on:

• Evaluating whether to use the work of an external expert
• How to identify an external expert
• The extended requirements for evaluating the objectivity of an external expert in the context of an audit or other assurance (including sustainability) engagement
• Concluding an external expert’s competence, capabilities and objectivity
• Potential threats arising from using the work of an external expert
• Specific considerations related to the IESSA

Access other resources relating to this standard on the IESBA Experts Page.

2. Proportionality of the IESSA

This publication highlights key aspects of the IESSA that illustrate its proportionality, while the IESSA also provides a robust global ethics and independence baseline for sustainability assurance engagements (SAEs). The proportionality of the IESSA enables it to support the performance of SAEs for entities of all sizes, thereby underpinning public trust in those engagements.

The publication is especially geared towards facilitating the implementation of the IESSA by SAPs that are small and medium practices (SMPs).

Access other resources relating to the IESSA on the IESBA Sustainability Focus Page.

Both publications may also be helpful to jurisdictional standard setters, regulators and oversight bodies, professional accountancy organizations, educational bodies, and other stakeholders.

About IESBA

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) is an independent global standard-setting board. The IESBA’s mission is to serve the public interest by setting high-quality, international ethics (including independence) standards as a cornerstone to ethical behavior in business and organizations, and to public trust in financial and non-financial information that is fundamental to the proper functioning and sustainability of organizations, financial markets and economies worldwide.

Along with the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), the IESBA is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). The Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB) oversees IESBA and IAASB activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards.

• O programa final anunciado com o investimento de private equity nas firmas de auditoria e contabilidadee em destaque.
• As conferências principais contarão com Maria Luís Albuquerque (Comissária Europeia), Jean-Paul Servais (Presidente da IOSCO) e Joaquim Miranda Sarmento (Ministro de Estado e das Finanças de Portugal), acompanhados por mais de 20 líderes globais.
• Mais de 700 inscrições já foram confirmadas, representando 96 jurisdições em seis continentes, com mais de 250 participantes em Lisboa. As inscrições presenciais encontram-se encerradas, mas a participação virtual continua disponível.

O International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) anunciou hoje o programa final da sua Conferência inaugural de Ética e Independência, que terá lugar no dia 15 de setembro em Lisboa e online.

O programa ficou concluído com a confirmação dos oradores para o painel da tarde sobre o crescimento do investimento de Private Equity nas firmas de auditoria e contabilidade. O debate, moderado por Ken Siong, Diretor Sénior de Programas do IESBA, contará com Mark Babington, Diretor Executivo de Normas Regulatórias no UK Financial Reporting Council e Membro do Board do IESBA; Liam Boyle, Chief Risk Officer da Teneo; e Wendy Russel, Head of Audit da Grant Thornton UK.

Este será um dos seis debates temáticos que abordarão os principais desenvolvimentos que estão a moldar a profissão e os serviços financeiros. Entre estes incluem-se também os impactos das alterações regulatórias e da disrupção tecnológica e da inteligência artificial, cultura e governação nas empresas de auditoria e contabilidade, desenvolvimentos relacionados com a informação de sustentabilidade, ética em planeamento fiscal e o papel dos profissionais de contabilidade e auditoria no combate ao crime financeiro.

Os oradores principais incluem Maria Luís Albuquerque, Comissária Europeia para os Serviços Financeiros e para a União da Poupança e dos Investimentos, Jean-Paul Servais, Presidente da IOSCO, e Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, Ministro de Estado e das Finanças de Portugal. Juntam-se a um prestigiado painel com mais de 20 especialistas e líderes internacionais.

Mais de 700 participantes já se inscreveram, representando 96 jurisdições em seis continentes, com mais de 250 inscritos para assistir em Lisboa. Embora as inscrições presenciais estejam encerradas, a participação virtual permanece disponível.

O programa completo e os detalhes de inscrição podem ser consultados em www.ethicsboard.org/iesba-conference-2025.

Num momento em que a pressão regulatória evolui e a inovação acelera, a conferência oferece uma oportunidade para explorar o papel das práticas éticas e regras de independência  no reforço da competitividade, resiliência e confiança dos cidadãos e investidores nos setores da contabilidade e auditoria, nos mercados financeiros e na economia.

Esta  é a primeira conferência internacional dedicada à ética e à independência em serviços financeiros organizada pelo IESBA, refletindo o compromisso do Board com a promoção do diálogo com os seus stakeholders a nível internacional. Igualmente, visa contribuir para a adoção dos seus standards, consagrados no seu código internacional de ética de independência — um benchmark já adotado, utilizado ou usado como referência em mais de 130 jurisdições em todo o mundo.

A Conferência IESBA 2025 marca também o início da reunião do board do IESBA de setembro, que terá lugar em Lisboa, no campus do ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management.

O evento conta com o apoio generoso do ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management, bem como das duas organizações profissionais portuguesas do setor: a OCC – Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados e a OROC – Ordem dos Revisores Oficiais de Contas.

Estes apoios são críticos para permitir a realização da conferência em Lisboa, evidenciando a associação destas organizações ao propósito desta iniciativa do IESBA de dinamização do diálogo internacional, ao mais alto nível, sobre temas de grande atualidade para o setor da contabilidade e auditoria, os mercados financeiros e a economia.

Sobre o IESBA

O International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) é um organismo independente de definição de normas internacionais. A sua missão é servir o interesse público através da definição de standards éticos internacionais de elevada qualidade (incluindo normas sobre independência), como base para o comportamento ético nos negócios e nas organizações, e para a confiança pública na informação financeira e não financeira — essencial ao funcionamento e sustentabilidade das organizações, dos mercados financeiros e das economias a nível global.

Juntamente com o International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), o IESBA integra a International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). As atividades do IESBA e do IAASB, bem como a adequação dos seus standards ao interesse público, são supervisionadas pelo Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB).

Contactos para a Imprensa:

Rui Peres Jorge 

Director de Comunicação Estratégica 

International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) 

ruiperesjorge@ethicsboard.org | Directo: +351 966-301-383

David Johnson 

Assessor Sénior de Comunicação

IESBA Communications

davidjohnson@ethicsboard.org | Directo: +1 (212) 471-8732

Rita Dimas

Consultora de Comunicação

Dédalo

ritadimas@dedalo.pt| Directo: +351 937-675-656

• Final program announced with Private Equity in Accounting under the spotlight, alongside panels on regulatory shifts, market transparency, firm culture, technology & AI, and financial crime.
• Keynotes feature Maria Luís Albuquerque (European Commissioner), Jean-Paul Servais (IOSCO Chair), and Joaquim Miranda Sarmento (Portugal’s Finance Minister), joined by more than 20 global leaders.
• Over 700 registrants confirmed from nearly 96 jurisdictions across six continents, including more than 250 in Lisbon. In-person registration closed; virtual participation still open.

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) today unveiled the final program for its inaugural Ethics and Independence Conference, taking place on September 15 in Lisbon and online.

The program is complete, with the confirmation of speakers for the afternoon panel on the rise of private equity in accounting firms. The discussion, moderated by Ken Siong, IESBA Program and Senior Director, will feature Mark Babington, Executive Director of Regulatory Standards at the UK Financial Reporting Council and IESBA Board Member; Liam Boyle, Chief Risk Officer at Teneo; and Wendy Russel, Head of Audit at Grant Thornton UK.

This will be one of six targeted discussions covering key developments shaping the accounting services sector and financial markets. Panels will address regulatory shifts and their impact on accounting and capital markets, sustainability reporting, firm culture and governance, ethical tax planning, the accountant’s role in combatting financial crime, and the ethical implications of technological disruption and AI.

Keynote speakers include Maria Luís Albuquerque, European Commissioner for Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union, Jean-Paul Servais, Chair of IOSCO, and Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, Portugal’s Minister of State and Finance. They join a distinguished line-up of more than 20 global experts and leaders.

More than 700 participants have registered, representing 96 jurisdictions across six continents, with over 250 registered to attend in Lisbon. While in-person registration is now closed, virtual participation remains available.

The full program and registration details can be found at www.ethicsboard.org/iesba-conference-2025.

As regulatory pressures intensify and innovation accelerates, the conference offers a timely platform to explore how ethics and independence can strengthen competitiveness, resilience, and public confidence in business, the accounting profession, and global financial markets.

This event marks IESBA’s first global conference on ethics and independence, reflecting the Board’s commitment to engaging with stakeholders worldwide and promoting the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International Independence Standards), a benchmark adopted or referenced in over 130 jurisdictions globally.

The conference also marks the beginning of the September 2025 IESBA Board Meeting, which will take place at the ISEG – Lisbon School of Economics and Management.

The event is made possible with the support of ISEG, as well as Portugal’s two professional accountancy organizations: OCC – Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados and OROC – Ordem dos Revisores Oficiais de Contas.

Their support was critical to hosting the conference in Lisbon and reflects their alignment with IESBA’s mission to foster international dialogue on timely and pressing issues for the profession, financial markets, and the wider economy.

About IESBA

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) is an independent global standard-setting board. The IESBA’s mission is to serve the public interest by setting high-quality, international ethics (including independence) standards as a cornerstone to ethical behavior in business and organizations, and to public trust in financial and non-financial information that is fundamental to the proper functioning and sustainability of organizations, financial markets and economies worldwide.

Along with the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), the IESBA is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA). The Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB) oversees IESBA and IAASB activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards.

Media Contacts:

Rui Peres Jorge

Director of Strategic Communications

International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA)

ruiperesjorge@ethicsboard.org | Direct: +351 966-301-383

David Johnson

Senior Manager

IESBA Communications

davidjohnson@ethicsboard.org | Direct: +1 (212) 471-8732

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) has released narrow scope amendments to its standards revising the definition of listed entity to align with the definition in the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ (IESBA) Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International Independence Standards). The new definition will amend the International Standards on Quality Management and International Standards on Auditing. In addition, amendments to International Standard on Review Engagement 2400 (Revised), Engagements to Review Historical Financial Statements, aim to align with the IESBA Code of Ethics regarding certain public disclosures about the application of independence requirements.

The narrow scope amendments:

• Adopt the same definition of publicly traded entity (PTE) in the ISQMs and ISAs as adopted in the IESBA Code of Ethics, while recognizing the role local standard setters and regulators play in defining PTEs for their jurisdictions.
• Incorporate an overarching objective for differential requirements for PTEs in the ISQMs and ISAs and a framework for when it may be appropriate to apply such requirements to other entities.
• Amend the applicability of the existing requirements for audits of listed entities to apply to audits of PTEs.
• Add a new requirement in ISRE 2400 (Revised) for public disclosure in the practitioner’s review report when the practitioner applied independence requirements specific to reviews of financial statements of certain entities, e.g., for public interest entities.

Throughout the development of these amendments, the IAASB maintained close collaboration and coordination with IESBA, striving to align key concepts in the IAASB’s and IESBA’s standards, to the greatest extent possible.

To assist its stakeholder understanding and implementing the narrow scope amendments, the IAASB has published a Basis for Conclusions, available on its website here.

Effective Date and Resources
The narrow scope amendments become effective for engagements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2026. This effective date is aligned with the effective dates for the IAASB’s recently revised standards on going concern and fraud, ISA 570 (Revised 2024) and ISA 240 (Revised), respectively. Together, these standards provide a stronger, more coordinated response to the risks of fraud and financial distress.

About the IAASB
The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board develops auditing, assurance, related services, and quality management standards and guidance in the public interest that support consistent performance of quality engagements. Along with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants, the IAASB is part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit. The Public Interest Oversight Board oversees IAASB and IESBA activities and the public interest responsiveness of the standards. For copyright, trademark, and permissions information, please visit Permissions.

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) is excited to announce that the World Congress of Accountants (WCOA) will be held November 17–20, 2026, in Seoul, South Korea. The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA) and IFAC will serve as joint hosts, working closely to welcome professional accountants from around the world for the event.

Recognized as a preeminent event for the profession, WCOA brings together Professional Accountancy Organization (PAO) representatives from over 100 countries to strengthen the global accountancy community by sharing experiences, learning and deepening relationships across the profession.  

WCOA 2026 marks the launch of a new biennial format, wherein the event will be held every two years. All accountants, as well as interested members of the public, are invited to participate in WCOA virtually to hear about how the profession is positioning itself for the future. In-person participation will be invite-only and will bring together some of the most experienced and visionary leaders in our field. WCOA will continue to be scheduled alongside IFAC Council meetings.

In-person participants of WCOA 2026 will have the opportunity to join in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and hear from distinguished subject-matter experts. The event will include opportunities to attend networking events, in order to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from various sectors. In-person WCOA 2026 attendees will be comprised of IFAC PAO leadership (staff and volunteers), professional services firms, standard-setters, regulators and other government officials, representatives of multilateral and development agencies, and the business and investor communities. Select sessions will be livestreamed so that virtual attendees are included in these important conversations.    

 Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said:

"Seoul is a vibrant, innovative, and truly international city—an ideal host for WCOA 2026. At this Congress, the importance of a resilient, adaptable, and global accountancy profession will be front and center. We are honored to partner with our esteemed member, KICPA, to bring the world together here—leaders, colleagues, and friends united by our shared commitment to the public interest. The value of a strong, global profession has never been more pronounced, nor more needed.

We look forward to creating a Congress where every moment matters—whether on stage in a plenary or in a simple conversation between two new acquaintances—each connection will help shape the future of our profession. And of course, we will be engaging deeply on the drivers reshaping that future: sustainability, AI, and how we attract and empower the next generation of talent."

Mr. Woon-Youl Choi, KICPA President said:

“We are delighted that Seoul has been selected as the host city for WCOA 2026. I am confident that WCOA 2026 will serve as a meaningful platform not only to address priorities in accounting, auditing, and sustainability, but also to explore the challenges and opportunities of AI-enabled digital innovation.

Over the years, Korea has consistently strengthened transparency and trust amid a rapidly evolving domestic and global environment. Through this Congress, we look forward to sharing our experience with the global community while co-creating new value for future generations.

KICPA will work closely with IFAC—from program design through on-site delivery—to ensure a high-quality and rewarding experience for all participants. We also invite every participant to experience Seoul’s vibrant culture and dynamic innovation ecosystem during the Congress and to leave with forward-looking insights.”

IFAC looks forward to working with KICPA to deliver a world-class event in November 2026. Subscribe to IFAC newsletters and follow us on LinkedIn for more announcements in the coming months. For more information on WCOA 2026, please email WCOA@IFAC.org.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.     

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.     

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.     

About KICPA

The Korean Institute of Certified Public Accountants (KICPA), established in 1954 under the Certified Public Accountants Act, is the statutory professional body representing Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in Korea. Guided by the principle that sound accounting makes economic fundamentals sound, KICPA works to build trust and transparency in Korea's financial markets. Through setting professional standards, ensuring ethical conduct, and supporting continuous professional development, KICPA enables CPAs to serve the public interest, promote sound corporate governance, and contribute to Korea's economic development. KICPA is a member of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the global home for the accountancy profession dedicated to serving the public interest.

The International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board is hosting a three-part global webinar series designed to assist sustainability assurance practitioners, firms, jurisdictional standard setters, and professional organizations as they adopt, implement, or apply International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA) 5000, General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements (ISSA 5000) Regulators, oversight bodies, and other stakeholders (e.g., preparers, those charged with governance or users of sustainability reporting) may also find these webinars helpful.

This series, ISSA 5000 in Focus, will take participants through ISSA 5000 from engagement acceptance, assessing risks and designing and performing procedures, and finally to concluding and reporting. Each webinar includes an explanation of ISSA 5000 requirements with practical implementation insights, real-world examples, and solutions to common challenges.

Across the three sessions, participants will:

• Gain an understanding of ISSA 5000 concepts, scope, and application.
• Enhance their understanding of the requirements of ISSA 5000, including addressing assurance issues that may be particularly challenging, such as materiality and value chain considerations.
• Explore common pitfalls and how to overcome them.
• Engage directly with IAASB experts during Q&A segments.

Each webinar will take place twice to accommodate different time zones and a global audience. The webinars will air via Zoom with livestreaming on YouTube.

Webinar #1: Foundational Principles and Concepts

• Register for October 1, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 2, 18:00 UTC

Webinar #2: Engagement Planning, Risk Assessment & Response

• Register for October 7, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 8, 18:00 UTC

Webinar #3: Concluding and Reporting on Sustainability Assurance Engagements

• Register for October 14, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 15, 18:00 UTC

Additional details on each webinar are available below.

Webinar #1: Foundational Principles and Concepts

Dates: October 1 (11:00 UTC) or October 2 (18:00 UTC)
Being well prepared sets the tone for a successful sustainability assurance engagement. In this session, IAASB experts will walk participants through the fundamental concepts and underlying premises for applying ISSA 5000—explaining its scope, authority, and why it was developed—and addressing overarching matters in preparing to perform a high-quality sustainability assurance engagement, including making sound engagement acceptance decisions.

• Register for October 1, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 2, 18:00 UTC

Webinar #2: Engagement Planning, Risk Assessment & Response

Dates: October 7 (11:00 UTC) or October 8 (18:00 UTC)
Planning, risk assessment and response are at the heart of delivering a robust sustainability assurance engagement. Together they enable the practitioner to obtain sufficient appropriate evidence as a basis for their sustainability assurance conclusion. This session explores what is key to an effective strategy and engagement plan under ISSA 5000, and the essential aspects of identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement of the sustainability information and designing and performing procedures to respond to those risks.

• Register for October 7, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 8, 18:00 UTC

Webinar #3: Concluding and Reporting on Sustainability Assurance Engagements

Dates: October 14 (11:00 UTC) or October 15 (18:00 UTC)

The assurance engagement culminates in the practitioner’s conclusion about whether the sustainability information is free from material misstatement. The practitioner’s conclusion and assurance report are the ultimate deliverables of the sustainability assurance engagement and are designed to enhance the degree of confidence of intended users about the entity’s sustainability information. In this session, IAASB experts will guide participants through the final stages of the engagement process under ISSA 5000—the evaluation of evidence, forming a conclusion, and preparation of an assurance report.

• Register for October 14, 11:00 UTC
• Register for October 15, 18:00 UTC

Developing high-quality financial reporting standards for the public sector requires an ecosystem. In addition to the feedback we receive from users of our standards around the world, we also rely on the academic community's research to help strengthen our standards.

We're offering up to six grants of $2,000 USD for research related to topics that can help us with our current and future projects including sustainability reporting.

Topics of Interest:

• Presentation of Financial Statements
• Interaction with GFSM 2014
• Accounting for Biodiversity in the Public Sector
• Climate-related Disclosures – Public Policy Programs
• IPSAS 2, Cash Flow Statements
• IPSAS 18, Segment Reporting
• IPSAS 20, Related Party Disclosures
• IPSAS 31, Intangible Assets
• IPSAS 35, Consolidated Financial Statements

As a first step, please submit an abstract related to one of the above topics by September 15, 2025. Final selected papers will be due May 16, 2026. Papers will be presented at the 2026 Research Forum in partnership with the Comparative International Governmental Accounting Research (CIGAR) Network.

Submissions are reviewed by our Academic Advisory Group, chaired by former IPSASB Chair, Andreas Bergmann, and including academic members, as well as representatives of the Comparative International Governmental Accounting Research (CIGAR) Network and International Research Society for Public Management (IRSPM).

Academics: this is an opportunity for you to have a significant impact on accounting standards used by governments and public sector entities across the globe.

Learn more and submit your abstracts.

Africa is a source of growth, innovation, and opportunity, and the accountancy profession is rising to meet the moment. This week in Nairobi, IFAC Connect^TM Africa 2025 brings together public and private sector leaders, regulators, standard setters, and professional accountancy organizations to accelerate a shared vision for sustainable development across the continent.  

Convened by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and co-hosted with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), IFAC Connect Africa 2025 launches the second annual IFAC Connect series, designed to ensure international standards and best practices support local solutions. As Africa advances its economic and institutional development, the continent faces both opportunities and challenges across several critical fronts. Navigating these interconnected issues requires coordinated leadership and dialogue across the public and private sectors. IFAC Connect Africa 2025 offers a platform for regional and international leaders to convert insights into action—strengthening trust in institutions, reinforcing the role of professional accountancy organizations and their members, and ensuring the continent is well-positioned to meet the expectations of financial markets, investors, and its citizens. 

As Africa accelerates its transformation, the accountancy profession is central to strengthening governance, advancing sustainability, building talent, enabling regional integration, and fighting financial crime. Over two days, leaders will focus on turning global standards and shared priorities into practical, locally relevant action across both public and private sectors.  

Lee White, IFAC Chief Executive Officer, said: 

“Regional professional accounting leadership is driving economic growth and resilience. With our valued members and partners in Africa, we are all striving for common goals of the use of global standards shaped within local and regional conditions in the public interest. I am privileged to work with many talented colleagues in Africa and we will continue to find opportunities to grow and shape our trusted profession. We are Better Together.” 

Prem Govender, PAFA Vice President, said:  

“Africa’s accountancy profession is stepping forward to shape the continent’s future. This collaboration with IFAC and ICPAK reflects our shared vision of a profession that is inclusive, future-focused, and essential to Africa’s sustainable development.” 

IFAC’s longstanding partnership with PAFA is central to its work in Africa and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the profession’s capacity to serve the public interest, drive economic transformation, and meet global expectations. From supporting PAFA’s establishment to co-developing strategic initiatives across the continent, IFAC has worked closely with PAFA to amplify Africa’s voice in the global accountancy ecosystem. The two organizations collaborate to align regional priorities with international standards, optimize resources, and ensure consistent, trusted messaging across the profession. IFAC Connect Africa 2025 builds on this strong foundation and serves as the next chapter in a shared effort to deliver global solutions that reflect and respond to Africa’s unique opportunities and realities. 

Prof. Elizabeth Kalunda, Chair, ICPAK: 

“Hosting IFAC Connect Africa 2025 in Nairobi underscores Kenya’s commitment to regional leadership in the profession. Together with IFAC and PAFA, we are driving a transformative agenda grounded in accountability, transparency, and innovation. This event is an opportunity to chart a path that responds to Africa’s needs while contributing meaningfully to the global conversation.” 

Following IFAC Connect Africa 2025, ICPAK will host its Member Practice Forum, featuring a keynote address by Lee White. 

IFAC Connect Africa 2025 is the first of four IFAC Connect events this year followed by MENA in Riyadh in October, Global 2025 in Mexico City in November, and ASIAPAC in Jakarta in December. 

About IFAC  

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.     

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.     

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.     

About PAFA  

PAFA is an IFAC Network Partner and Regional Organization, representing the accountancy profession in Africa. PAFA has 57 member organizations in 47 countries in Africa and five international affiliates. PAFA’s vision is sustainable value creation for the citizens of Africa. This is achieved by strengthening the capacity and influence of the accountancy profession to enhance trade, the quality of services, and trust in institutions.  

About ICPAK 

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) is the statutory body of Accountants established by the Accountants Act CAP 531.The Institute is also a member of the Pan Africa Federation of Accountants (PAFA) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), the global umbrella body for the accountancy profession. 

The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) welcomes the appointment of Julia Rendschmidt as the new Executive Director of the International Forum of Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR), effective 1 October. IFAC also extends its sincere thanks to Delon Abrams for his dedication and leadership while serving as Acting Executive Director over the past several months.

Lee White, Chief Executive Officer of IFAC, said:

“On behalf of IFAC and the global accountancy profession, I warmly congratulate Julia on her appointment. Her proven leadership, deep regulatory expertise, and strong commitment to audit quality will serve IFIAR well as it continues its important mission to strengthen audit oversight and public trust. We look forward to working closely with Julia in this next chapter for IFIAR.

I also want to express my gratitude to Delon for his steady stewardship during the transition. His commitment and professionalism ensured IFIAR remained on course and operating effectively, and we thank him for his service”.

Ms. Rendschmidt currently serves as Head of Division for EU and International Affairs with the German Auditor Oversight Body (AOB), where she has played a key role as a national regulator. She also represents Germany at board level within IFIAR and at plenary level on the Committee of European Auditing Oversight Bodies (CEAOB).

“Julia will no doubt build on IFIAR’s success to date and advance its work to enhance audit quality and contribute to the stability of the global financial system. I have had the pleasure of working with Julia in audit oversight and regulation in the past, and I look forward to renewing our constructive and collaborative relationship in her new role”, Mr. White added.

About IFAC

IFAC, by connecting and uniting its members, makes the accountancy profession truly global.

IFAC member organizations are champions of integrity and professional quality, and proudly carry their membership as a badge of international recognition.

IFAC and its members work together to shape the future of the profession through learning, innovation, a collective voice, and commitment to the public interest.

The IAASB has released two new resources to further support jurisdictions and stakeholders in adopting and implementing the International Standard on Sustainability Assurance (ISSA) 5000, General Requirements for Sustainability Assurance Engagements.

1. Extracts from ISSA 5000 for Limited and Reasonable Assurance Engagements

In response to stakeholder requests, the IAASB has prepared reference extracts containing only the material in ISSA 5000 relevant to limited assurance engagements and, separately, reasonable assurance engagements. These extracts are designed to help regulators, standard setters, and other stakeholders more easily identify the requirements and application material most relevant to their jurisdictional decisions. They do not amend or override ISSA 5000, the authoritative text of which remains the full standard.

2. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document on ISAE 3000 (Revised) and ISAE 3410

The IAASB has published FAQs clarifying that, for jurisdictions adopting IAASB standards, ISAE 3000 (Revised) and ISAE 3410 will no longer apply to sustainability assurance engagements once ISSA 5000 becomes effective in December 2026. These FAQs aim to support a smooth transition and consistent application of the new standard.

In addition, the IAASB has updated the adoption information on its website, reflecting the growing global momentum toward adoption of ISSA 5000.

Together with previously published materials, these publications underscore the IAASB’s commitment to supporting adoption and implementation of ISSA 5000 and fostering high-quality, globally consistent sustainability assurance practices.

Access the extracts, FAQs, and adoption information, as well as previously published materials, on the IAASB website here.