This publication provides an overview of the key differences between the IESSA and the ethics and independence provisions in the Code applicable to an audit of financial statements. It is intended to facilitate the understanding and implementation of the IESSA by firms that also follow the Code when performing audits of financial statements. Jurisdictional standard setters, regulators and oversight bodies, professional accountancy organizations, educational bodies and other stakeholders may also find the publication helpful.

The IESBA Staff Questions and Answers publication focuses on ethics and independence considerations for practitioners performing sustainability assurance engagements.

Topics covered include:

The International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants® (IESBA®) has revised its Code of Ethics to include specific, fit-for-purpose ethics provisions for preparers of sustainability disclosures in the public interest. Learn more about these changes in this high-level summary.

On July 22, 2024, The IESBA submitted a comment letter to the Committee of European Auditing Oversight Bodies (CEAOB) regarding the CEAOB’s draft non-binding guidelines on limited assurance on sustainability reporting under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in the European Union (EU).