Principles of Financial Analysis and Investigations

Addressing accounting principles and accounting equation, the first training day introduced the definition of accounting, introduction to accounting principles, role of accounting in decision-making and linkage to financial investigations, significance of double-entry bookkeeping, and accounting on accrual basis. Besides annual budgeting processes and inclusion of budget line items, the training event covered government accounting, including definition, objectives and sources.
 
The second training day discussed financial auditing, including auditing definition, types, standards and phases. Participants learned professional standards, objectives and procedures of internal auditing. They were also introduced to planning objectives and advantages, auditing risks, and investigation of fraud crimes, including the relevant tools an investigator needs. Over the training days, discussions were ensued by illustrative case studies, practical applications and examples on principles of financial analysis and investigations.

The training is a component of the Anti-Corruption Capacity Building Assistance in Palestine Project, implemented in partnership and cooperation between the IoL and Palestinian Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), High Judicial Council (HJC) and Public Prosecution. The project is designed to support Palestinian anti-corruption actors and provide capacity building to relevant staff. The training course brought together members of the Public Prosecution and Anti-Corruption Prosecution team.

The Anti-Corruption Capacity Building Assistance in Palestine Project is implemented over the period from April through late December 2013. Tailored to promote accountability and fight corruption in Palestine, the project is part of a joint programme of the United Nations Development Programme/Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (UNDP/PAPP) and EUPOL COPPS.