The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) has published a new set of principles aimed at expanding access to the accounting profession and encouraging broader participation. 

Titled Opening Doors: Six Principles of Best Practice to Increase Access to Accountancy Qualifications, the framework was developed with support from the Global Public Policy Committee, which includes leaders from BDO, Deloitte, EY, Grant Thornton, KPMG, and PwC. 

Accounting Today reports that the principles are designed to help IFAC’s member organizations and other professional bodies welcome talent from a wider range of backgrounds, remove unnecessary barriers, and adapt qualification pathways while maintaining the standards that uphold public trust. 

“The accountancy profession is enriched through talent drawn from the widest breadth possible,” said IFAC CEO Lee White. “I am excited by the opportunity Opening Doors creates to engage future talent in new ways and respond to the evolving workplace. Our members uphold the highest standards of integrity and quality, and together we are building a border-based, innovative and connected profession—on that is forward-looking and equipped to sustain public trust.” 

The six guiding principles emphasize opening entry to diverse educational backgrounds, recognizing prior experience, removing barriers, providing flexible qualification options, enabling step-off points, and supporting global mobility. 

Some IFAC members have already implemented these principle. A panel discussion on the initiative will take place at IFAC’s upcoming November conference in Mexico City.