On November 27, the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) launched the second phase of the TCU Exchange Program in Audit and Government Management (ProInter-TCU), established in May. This edition focuses on the theme "Women in Leadership." It features the participation of fifteen female auditors holding leadership positions within the Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (OISC-CPLP). 

A weeklong series of activities culminating on December 1st brought discussions on diversity, inclusion, and gender-sensitive budgeting. On the first day of the meeting, the participants engaged in a comprehensive discussion on harassment prevention and eradication, along with audit strategies within the scope of Human Rights and Equity. A course on women in leadership was conducted by Gisèle Szczyglak, philosopher and professor at the National School of Administration (ENA) of France.  

Ana Paula Sampaio, TCU's General Secretariat of External Control, highlighted the importance of the initiative. "This event holds the potential to elevate women who are actively advocating for a more just and equitable society by empowering them to an even higher level of consciousness and with greater resources. When we talk about equity, we talk about efficiency and effectiveness, in taking advantage of our human resources", she said during the opening.  

One of the project's key objectives is to facilitate the dissemination of best practices in the administrative areas of audit institutions, with particular emphasis on the implementation of recommendations outlined in the gender and non-discrimination policy of the Organization of Latin American and Caribbean Supreme Audit Institutions (OLACEFS). 

Raisa Ojala, TCU's Director of International Cooperation, highlighted the relevance of the role of women in organizations, in all positions and functions. "This is a path where titles are irrelevant. We embrace leadership within our teams, regardless of individual positions, allowing us to make meaningful contributions to our collective success. Given the current scenario, it is essential for us to assert ourselves, make our voices heard, and celebrate our leadership expertise. This program represents a significant step forward in promoting gender equality in leadership, transcending its role as a mere platform for exchange," she concluded. 

Representatives of the TCU, including the Secretary General of the Presidency, Frederico Dias, and the Secretary General for Administration, Marcio Albuquerque, were also present at the opening of the meeting.