BRICS Acknowledges the Role of Supreme Audit Institutions in the Effectiveness of Public Policies

The 17th BRICS Summit, held from July 6–7 in Rio de Janeiro, represented a milestone for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs), including the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU). The Leaders' Declaration, the official document endorsed by the group's heads of state and government, has now formally incorporated a reference to the BRICS SAIs.

The BRICS SAIs gather audit institutions of the bloc’s member states. In 2025, the TCU coordinated this group. The initiative aims to enhance the collaboration among member SAIs, developing new auditing methodologies and collaborative approaches, and fostering mutual support for joint projects.

Among its key highlights, in the section titled “Deepening International Economic, Trade and Financial Cooperation,” the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration highlighted the role of audit institutions in fostering good governance and ensuring the effectiveness of public policies. It also recognizes the importance of leveraging digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, in the work of SAIs.

During a plenary address on July 9, the President of the TCU, Minister Vital do Rêgo, praised the Court’s leadership of the BRICS SAIs and its involvement in discussions on ressing societal issues. "This recognition further connects the work of audit institutions to citizens by addressing tangible issues such as the use of artificial intelligence," he stated. "I commend the TCU teams for their contribution to this initiative and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening international cooperation among audit institutions.”  

Throughout the year, the BRICS SAIs have participated in technical dialogues with representatives of member countries (known as Sherpas) as part of the Summit’s preparatory process. The TCU also hosted technical seminars, including a meeting on June 24 on the energy transition.