In a speech at the IIA Albania International Conference 2026, Bank of Albania Governor Gent Sejko said internal audit remains a core pillar of financial stability, institutional integrity and trust, and outlined how the central bank has continued to strengthen its own internal audit function as part of the third line of defence. He noted that Albania’s law on banks and the Bank of Albania’s regulatory framework place particular emphasis on internal governance, risk management and independent control functions, with internal audit serving as a key safeguard for the soundness and sustainability of financial institutions. Sejko pointed to external quality assessments and periodic self-assessments, stronger reporting lines and closer cooperation with the Audit Committee and the Supervisory Council, as well as internal audit’s role in Operational Risk Management and Business Continuity Management. He also said Albania is progressing in harmonising internal auditing standards with European and international practice, citing the 2025 Global Internal Audit Standards as an important step in modernising the profession.
Bank of Albania 2026-05-11
Bank of Albania Governor highlights strengthened internal audit function and alignment with 2025 Global Internal Audit Standards
The Bank of Albania Governor, speaking at the IIA Albania International Conference 2026, underscored internal audit as a core pillar of financial stability, institutional integrity and trust, and highlighted enhancements to the central bank’s internal audit as part of the third line of defence. He detailed measures including external quality and self-assessments, strengthened reporting lines, closer cooperation with the Audit Committee and Supervisory Council, and a greater role in operational risk and business continuity management, while noting Albania’s progress in aligning internal auditing standards with European and international practice, including the 2025 Global Internal Audit Standards.