Prospects for the implementation of Global Internal Audit Standards in the banking sector of Ukraine: adaptation to international requirements and national realities

Abstract

Internal audit in banks is a key tool for enhancing the efficiency and resilience of the banking system, providing an independent assessment of governance, control, and risk management systems. The activities of internal audit units are regulated by international standards, particularly the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) 2024, adapted to the Ukrainian context.

Problem statement. Under conditions of economic instability and external challenges, including martial law, the harmonization of national approaches to internal audit with international standards has become especially relevant, as it will improve control efficiency, transparency, and trust in the banking system.

Unresolved issues. Despite the existing regulatory framework, problems remain in resource provision, staff qualification levels, implementation of modern audit technologies, and the readiness of bank management to actively cooperate with internal audit units. The adaptation of GIAS to the public sector also remains insufficiently explored.

Purpose of the article. To substantiate the prospects for implementing the GIAS 2024 in the Ukrainian banking sector, considering international experience, national regulatory specifics, and current financial security challenges.

Main material. The article presents a comparative analysis of the structure and content of the GIAS 2024 and previous standards, highlighting the five domains of the new standards, their principles, requirements, and implementation guidelines. The difficulties of adapting the requirements - particularly in resource provision, communication with supervisory boards, and the introduction of KPIs for evaluating audit effectiveness—are analyzed. Practical aspects of implementing new procedures are identified, including strengthening the role of internal audit in risk management systems and supporting the digital transformation of banks.

Conclusions. The implementation of GIAS 2024 in the Ukrainian banking sector has the potential to significantly improve the quality of internal control, align with international standards, and strengthen investor confidence. Successful realization requires methodological guidelines, a clear system of performance indicators, updated internal bank regulations, adequate financial and human resources, and integration of the standards into the daily practice of internal auditors.