Overview
International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) is an independent international standard-setting body that serves the public interest by developing high-quality international standards for auditing, quality management, review, other assurance, and related services. Founded in March 1978 as International Auditing Practices Committee, it was reconstituted as IAASB in 2002 and now operates under the oversight of the Public Interest Oversight Board (PIOB). IAASB’s standards are used in more than 130 jurisdictions and support consistent global audit and assurance practices.
Mission and focus areas
IAASB’s primary goal is to enhance the quality and uniformity of auditing and assurance engagements worldwide by issuing authoritative international standards and guidance. It promotes convergence of international and national standards to strengthen public confidence in financial reporting and market integrity. IAASB’s work increasingly includes assurance on non-financial reporting, such as sustainability information, responding to market and regulatory demands for credible, independently assured sustainability disclosures.
Structure and governance
IAASB operates with oversight from PIOB, ensuring its activities and standard-setting processes are responsive to public interest considerations. It forms part of the International Foundation for Ethics and Audit (IFEA) alongside the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants. The board comprises a Chair, Vice-Chair, and members from diverse geographic and professional backgrounds. Its governance framework includes stakeholder consultation mechanisms that inform standard development.
Programs and offerings
IAASB publishes International Standards on Auditing (ISAs), International Standards on Quality Management (ISQMs), International Standards on Review Engagements (ISREs), and International Standards on Assurance Engagements (ISAEs). It also issues handbooks, strategy documents, consultation papers, reports, and implementation support tools to assist audit and assurance practitioners. These outputs provide practical and globally recognised frameworks that underpin quality audit and assurance services.
