EU4PFM Supports Alignment of Ukraine’s National Internal Audit Standards with Global Standards

Following the introduction of the new Global Internal Audit Standards by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) in 2025, the Ministry of Finance initiated the update of the National Internal Audit Standards. Within this process, EU4PFM experts provided technical support by reviewing the draft Order prepared by the Ministry of Finance, approving the updated Standards. The experts also assessed their alignment with the GIAS.

The EU4PFM review confirmed a significant level of convergence. In particular, the revised standards:

• demonstrate substantial progress in clearly defining the purpose and value of internal audit, as well as strengthening requirements related to ethics, objectivity, and professional scepticism;
• introduce risk-based approaches linked to strategic vision and long-term positioning of internal audit units, including audit planning and engagement execution,
• clarify the role of internal audit and its interaction with Audit Committees and senior management.

Further improvements relate to enhancing quality assurance and improvement arrangements, such as independent quality reviews, and to expanding competency requirements for internal auditors, covering IT, fraud prevention, and modern audit methods.

EU4PFM experts will continue to support the Ministry of Finance and its PIFC Department through technical advice, international benchmarking, and practical guidance to ensure that the standards are fully aligned with GIAS and effectively implemented in practice.

For information:

The alignment of the National Internal Audit Standards of Ukraine with the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) is led by the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine, with the support of the EU4PFM Project. This work forms part of Ukraine’s fulfilment of European Union requirements under Chapter 32 «Financial Control» and aims to further strengthen the role of internal audit within the public sector governance framework.

The ongoing update of the National Internal Audit Standards builds on a previously jointly developed roadmap for the transition to GIAS, ensuring a structured and consistent approach to reform. This approach supports institutional continuity while establishing a solid foundation for the further development of internal audit in Ukraine in line with EU standards and international professional practice.