The IIA Welcomes Kyrgyz Republic to its Global Federation
Press Release | National Institutes | July 22, 2026
International footprint now spans 122 Institutes
LAKE MARY, Fla. (July 22, 2026) — The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) today announced that Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan) has joined its global federation as a National Institute, strengthening the profession’s international reach and reinforcing ongoing efforts to advance internal audit worldwide.
As an approved National Institute, IIA-Kyrgyz Republic gains the legal framework and formal structure to support internal auditors across the country and region through advocacy, training, and professional development programs for both public and private sector auditors. This includes access to globally recognized certification pathways such as the Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®).
“On behalf of The IIA, I am pleased to welcome Kyrgyz Republic as the newest member of our global federation,” said Anthony Pugliese, CIA, CPA, CGMA, CITP, President and CEO of The Institute of Internal Auditors. “Each new Institute strengthens our shared ability to raise standards, expand access to education and certification, and reinforce the critical role internal audit plays in strong governance and organizational resilience.”
Kyrgyz Republic joins The IIA at a time when the profession continues its global adoption of the updated Global Internal Audit StandardsTM, which took effect in 2025 and are now being implemented across jurisdictions worldwide. The Standards provide a comprehensive and accessible guide to enhance internal audit quality, consistency, and performance across all sectors.
This milestone also aligns with broader initiatives underway at The IIA to expand access to certification and professional development. These include an experience-based pathway within the CIA Challenge Exam Program aimed at broadening eligibility for qualified candidates, as well as continued expansion of the program into additional languages. Spanish and French versions , with additional languages to follow.
To achieve National Institute status, Institutes must establish a strong organizational and governance foundation and undergo an extensive preparation process, including demonstrating sustainable strategic plans and a commitment to ethical standards, compliance, and long-term professional development for members.
With the addition of Kyrgyz Republic, The IIA’s global federation now includes 122 National Institutes, collectively supporting over 265,000 members worldwide.
About The Institute of Internal Auditors
The Institute of Internal Auditors (The IIA) is an international professional association that serves more than 265,000 global members and has awarded more than 220,000 Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certifications worldwide. Established in 1941, The IIA is recognized throughout the world as the internal audit profession's leader in standards, certifications, education, research, and technical guidance. For more information, visit theiia.org.
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