Auditor General Highlights Audit Institutions as Key to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Supreme audit institutions are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing reliable data and strengthening government accountability, according to Auditor General Hussain Niyazy. Niyazy made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the Symposium of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and the opening of the IDI Global Summit. The events, hosted in Ukulhas, Alif Alif Atoll, were organized by the Auditor General’s Office of the Maldives and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). Addressing the gathering, Niyazy emphasized that the role of audit institutions in small island nations has evolved far beyond traditional financial oversight. He noted that technical assistance from the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) and programs from the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) have significantly bolstered the capacity of these institutions to handle modern governance challenges. The symposium brought together 11 heads of supreme audit institutions, 46 international delegates, and 55 local participants. Discussions centered on improving public financial management and expanding audit roles to cover environmental and climate-related issues—critical areas for island nations facing natural disasters and limited resources. Niyazy stated that enhancing these auditing capabilities directly contributes to the economic stability and resilience of small island developing states, ultimately improving public welfare. He noted that the forum opened a path for meaningful dialogue on issues critical to the future of island nations. The event also served as the platform for the launch of the Auditor General’s Office Strategic Plan. Following the unveiling, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu addressed the participants, underscoring the importance of institutional development. The proceedings transitioned into the IDI Global Summit, which focuses on fostering collaboration between smaller audit offices and larger international institutions. The summit aims to create sustainable frameworks for future capacity-building and institutional growth to ensure that sustainable development is not just a goal, but a measurable reality.