The research reports that the top three areas posing ethical challenges. Credit: Duncan Andison/Shutterstock.

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has published a report that discusses the escalating ethical challenges within the accountancy sector. 

The study, which gathered more than 1,100 responses from 135 countries, indicates that 64% of accountants find ethical issues more challenging to resolve than they were three years ago. 

The research report says that the top three areas posing ethical challenges: leadership and culture; artificial intelligence and technology; and sustainability.  

The findings suggest that 55% of accountants have encountered unethical behaviour during their careers, with nearly one in four experiencing pressure to act unethically in the past three years. 

The study further highlights a gender disparity, with 27% of men compared to 19% of women reporting pressure to behave unethically.  

Respondents identified leadership and culture, AI and technology, and sustainability as the primary areas for ethical challenges over the past three years. 

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The complexity of ethical dilemmas is claimed to be not uniform across the globe, and the ACCA report emphasises the need for local context in promoting and enforcing ethical standards.  

ACCA Ethics and Assurance head and report author Sarah Lane said: “These insights underscore the need for robust ethical leadership and culture in organisations, and ongoing learning and development to support professional accountants in navigating these challenges in today’s evolving landscape.” 

In addition, the research points out critical areas for senior leadership to focus on, including mental health and well-being, professional competence and continuous learning, and more. 

Earlier in October 2024, ACCA joined forces with the UK-ASEAN Business Council to enhance international business and trade efforts in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.