Global Accreditation Reform

A new global accreditation structure is in place, but recognition, verification, and trust remain unchanged.

What Has Changed?

From 1 January 2026, international accreditation oversight entered a new phase with the establishment of Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated, consolidating the governance previously carried out by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC).

The intent behind this transition is structural clarity and stronger global alignment, not a change in how accreditation delivers trust.

The foundational principle remains unchanged:
accredited once, accepted everywhere.

Transition Period and Continuity of Recognition

During the transition period:

• Existing IAF and ILAC Mutual Recognition Arrangements remain valid
• Accredited certifications issued under these arrangements continue to be recognised internationally
• IAF and ILAC marks stay in use until the new global recognition mark is formally introduced
• Additional guidance is expected ahead of the planned April 2026 formal launch

For organisations that rely on accredited certification, the practical question remains one of verifiability.

Certification Verification

Accredited certifications retain their credibility because they can be independently confirmed through recognised international and national verification mechanisms. This includes:

• Global-level verification via IAF-recognised certificate search platforms
• National accreditation body verification, such as registers maintained by UKAS

Within this framework, certifications issued by UKAS-accredited Certification Bodies, including Risk Associates, remain independently verifiable. Risk Associates–issued certificates can be confirmed through:

• IAF CertSearch, validating international recognition under the multilateral recognition arrangements
  https://www.iafcertsearch.org/
• UKAS CertCheck, confirming UKAS-accredited certification status and scope
  https://certcheck.ukas.com/

You can also verify Risk Associates on IAF CERT Search

This layered verification model, international recognition supported by national accreditation oversight, continues to underpin confidence in accredited certification outcomes, even as global governance structures evolve.

As the transition progresses through 2026, references to IAF and ILAC will gradually align with the new global accreditation body. These changes will be communicated clearly and in advance, ensuring continuity for certified organisations, regulators, and stakeholders.

What remains constant is the role of accredited certification in providing objective, transparent, and internationally trusted assurance across markets.

Learn more about: Why Choose an Accredited Certification Body?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)