Auditing and corruption : The implementation of auditing and auditing standards within SMEs to fight corruption in Zambia

Sammanfattning: Corruption is a worldwide phenomenon that is described by scholars as cancer in society. Although, corruption is comprised of a comprehensive character there are several ways to counteract its consequences, one example would be through the enhancement of auditing. It is therefore interesting to look at what effect mandatory audits have on small and medium-sized enterprises in countries where that not exists. The research questions we have chosen to focus on are what perspective Zambian auditors have on how well suitable mandatory audits and international auditing standards are for Zambian SMEs? We will also explore which the auditors’ views regarding the importance of auditing and its role in combating corruption? The purpose of this thesis is to create an understanding regarding implementing and improving the usage of mandatory audits and international auditing standards within Zambian SMEs. This also includes enlightening the problems auditors face in their process to use these regulations within Zambian SMEs as tools to assist in the fight against the obstacles that corruption creates. This study has been done through qualitative research where the main empirical findings have been conducted through interviews with auditors in Zambia. These auditors have for instance, been asked questions about what rules that exist in their country, their view on the implementation of mandatory auditing and international auditing standards on SMEs, and if they have any personal experience of corruption in their line of work. The conclusion from this research showed that auditing could aid in the fight against corruption. These conclusions are based on the perceptions and opinions of the included auditors. An implementation of mandatory audits and international auditing standards within Zambian SMEs will detect and reduce corruption. Despite potential shortfall in knowledge while implementing adjusted ISA for SMEs, the benefits of implementation exceed the shortcomings. Auditing cannot only be used to detect corruption but also to deter it. Through mandatory audits and the risk of being caught pursuing corrupt acts will increase, deterring corruption. Consequently, auditing carries a great importance to combat corruption, and mandatory audits together with implementations of international auditing standards within SMEs will aid in a significant reduction of corruption in Zambia.