IIA Expands Global Reach with New National Institutes in Pakistan and Uzbekistan

IIA's Expanding Global Footprint

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) has announced a significant expansion of its international presence with the addition of Pakistan and Uzbekistan as new National Institutes. This development brings the IIA's global federation to 121 Institutes, demonstrating a continued commitment to fostering the internal audit profession across diverse regions. The establishment of these new Institutes provides a formal structure for supporting internal auditors in Pakistan and Uzbekistan, enabling them to access valuable resources, professional development opportunities, and globally recognized certifications such as the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

Empowering Local Internal Audit Professionals

As approved National Institutes, IIA-Uzbekistan and IIA-Pakistan are now equipped to advocate for the internal audit profession within their respective countries. This includes delivering essential training and professional development programs for both public and private sector auditors. The local presence of these Institutes is crucial for tailoring support to regional needs, ensuring that internal auditors have the tools and knowledge to confidently address complex challenges and uphold ethical practices. This expansion aligns with the IIA's broader mission to enhance the capabilities of internal audit practitioners globally.

Alignment with Evolving Global Standards and Practices

The integration of these new Institutes coincides with key developments in the internal audit profession, notably the widespread adoption of the updated Global Internal Audit Standards, which became effective in 2025. These Standards provide a comprehensive framework for strengthening internal audit performance across all sectors. Furthermore, this milestone is part of the IIA's ongoing organizational transformation, which includes the release of new Topical Requirements for areas like Cybersecurity, Third-Party Risk, and Organizational Behavior. These requirements establish a consistent global baseline for assessing specific risk areas, ensuring that internal audit practices remain robust and relevant in an ever-changing risk landscape.

Commitment to Governance and Ethical Practices

Achieving National Institute status is a rigorous process that requires demonstrating a strong organizational foundation, sustainable strategic plans, and a deep commitment to ethical practices, governance, and compliance. The IIA's vetting process ensures that new Institutes are well-prepared to uphold the high standards of the profession. With the addition of Pakistan and Uzbekistan, the IIA's global federation now supports over 265,000 members, reinforcing its position as a leading international professional association dedicated to advancing internal audit through standards, certifications, education, research, and technical guidance.