In December 2024, the members of the IAF (International Accreditation Forum) decided to expand the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) by including Anti-Bribery Management Systems (ABMS) and Compliance Management Systems (CMS). This expansion entails the inclusion of the ISO 37001:2016 standard for ABMS and ISO 37301:2021 for CMS as level 5 sub-scopes, with the ISO/IEC TS 17021-9:2016 standard for ABMS and ISO/IEC TS 17021-13:2021 for CMS serving as the corresponding level 4 sub-scopes.

The ISO 37001 and ISO 37301 standards serve as international reference standards for organizations seeking to demonstrate their commitment to combating corruption and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. ISO 37001 provides a useful framework for organizations to implement effective anti-bribery management systems, while ISO 37301 defines the requirements for the establishment, implementation, maintenance, and improvement of a compliance management system, thereby ensuring that companies comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.

In this context, the ISO/IEC TS 17021-9 and ISO/IEC TS 17021-13 standards complement ISO/IEC 17021-1 by providing specific competency requirements for personnel involved in the certification process for ABMS and CMS.

The inclusion of Anti-Bribery Management Systems and Compliance Management Systems in the IAF MLA will enable mutual recognition of accredited certifications in these areas by the signatories of the Agreement. This facilitates acceptance in various markets based on a single accreditation and certification, which is a crucial step for companies wishing to expand into international markets where anti-corruption and compliance requirements are particularly stringent.

This initiative represents a significant advancement in supporting organizations dedicated to ethical business practices and regulatory compliance. The extension of the MLA to include Anti-Bribery Management Systems and Compliance Management Systems strengthens global efforts to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within organizations, providing them with the necessary tools to build trust with their stakeholders and navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.

Companies worldwide are facing increasing scrutiny regarding ethical practices, legal compliance, and transparency. Expanding the IAF MLA to include ABMS and CMS contributes to creating a more transparent and accountable business environment, supporting those organizations aiming to prevent corruption, ensure compliance with regulations, and uphold ethical practices.

During this time of global change and heightened attention to corporate social responsibility, the adoption of standards such as ISO 37001 and ISO 37301 will facilitate a consistent and systematic approach to compliance management and the fight against corruption. Such an approach will not only enhance the reputation of companies but also provide a significant competitive advantage in an increasingly demanding market that is sensitive to ethical and legal issues.

Organizations that adopt these standards will not only demonstrate a strong commitment to integrity but will also benefit from increased trust from customers, business partners, and investors—crucial elements in an interconnected global economy. In an era when transparency is paramount, the implementation of adequate management systems represents a strategic choice for the future.

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