Effective, accountable and inclusive societies and institutions rely on good governance at all levels, from small companies through to multinationals and governments.

Governance is the system by which an organization is directed, controlled and held accountable to achieve its core purpose over the long term. ISO technical committee ISO/TC 309, Governance of organizations, was created to consolidate good practice for effective governance and covers a wide range of aspects, from direction, control and accountability, to compliance, corruption and whistleblowing. Its most prominent standard, ISO 37001 (anti-bribery management systems) helps promote peace, justice and strong institutions by increasing transparency and accountability. Further standards by this committee include ISO 19600, Compliance management systems – Guidelines, and ISO 37000, Guidance for the governance of organizations (currently in development), which encourage good direction and control of organizations of all types and sizes.