Finland develops internal control and risk management based on OECD recommendations

Finland has been working with the OECD to find the best ways to develop internal control, risk management and internal audit. This work is a response the ongoing evolution of the operating environment.

“Good internal control and risk management help ensure that public funds are used responsibly and effectively. They also support the transparency and responsibility of administration and its capacity to change,” said Government Controller-General Jaana Kuusisto.

The OECD recommends that Finland:

• harmonise regulations and responsibilities for internal control across central government;
• coordinate the guidance, implementation and monitoring of internal control;
• boost the scope, independence and capacity of internal audit;
• develop the competence of internal control and audit professionals;
• develop a comprehensive reporting and evaluation framework for internal control.

Putting recommendations into practice

Finland has already moved forward with the recommendations. They have been included in the action plan for the Advisory Council on Internal Control and Risk Management and its divisions for 2025–2027. The recommendations are also being incorporated into projects to develop central government administration that are already running.

The project was implemented by Ministry of Finance in cooperation with the OECD. The European Union financed the project through the Technical Support Instrument (TSI). The TSI provides EU Member States support in designing and implementing reforms.

Inquiries:
Jaana Kuusisto, Government Controller-General, tel. +358 295 530 051, jaana.kuusisto(at)gov.fi 
Terhi Sääskilahti, Chief Specialist, tel. +358 295 530 420, terhi.saaskilahti(at)gov.fi