INTERNAL AUDIT: A LEVER FOR EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE AND INCREASED ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

In a constantly changing context and a globalized environment, public organizations as major actors in the growth and development model of countries, are faced with the obligation to adopt management methods from the private sector. In this context, internal audit is considered as an essential lever for effective governance to ensure increased organizational performance within public organizations. The objective of this article is to propose a conceptual model on the contribution of internal audit practices to the organizational performance of public organizations, by evaluating internal controls, governance processes and risk management to improve operational efficiency and accountability. Anchored in the principles of new public management, the study explores the theoretical frameworks supporting the adoption of internal audit practices, including stakeholder theory and transaction cost theory. In addition, it highlights how internal audit strengthens risk management frameworks as a governance mechanism to ensure efficient use of resources and satisfaction of various stakeholders.