The annual sessions of the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR) are one of the largest international gatherings of experts and policy makers in the area of corporate transparency and accounting.

Each year more than 250 delegates from more than 80 UN member states participate in this three day event. A number of major international organizations active in accounting, reporting and investment, use the forum to provide updates on their respective activities.

At its upcoming 24th session, from 30 October to 1 November, ISAR will continue its review of practical implementation issues surrounding International Financial Reporting Standards, including the accounting needs of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises.

Other items to be addressed are:

1. Corporate responsibility indicators in annual reports
   
   
2. ISAR's annual review of corporate governance disclosure

The annual sessions of ISAR are typically preceded by a one day workshop. This year, the workshop will take place on 29 October and will focus on financial reporting and transparency in the extractive industries.