Charity Governance Code Update: Practical Implications for INGOs

The Charity Governance Code was updated in late 2025 to provide a refreshed framework for good governance across the charity sector. Although it is not mandatory, it remains an important reference for trustees, executives, funders and regulators, and is widely used as a benchmark for accountability and assurance.

Buzzacott and Bond previously published “Governance: a guide for international NGOs” to contextualise governance best practice for the sector.  We’re also co-hosted a webinar where we outlined the key themes and principles of the updated code, with a particular focus on its relevance and practical application for INGOs.

We covered:  

• What they mean in practice for INGOs working in complex, high-risk environments
• How the Code supports ethical leadership
• How boards and senior leaders can use it as a practical tool to strengthen governance
• Building more effective, inclusive boards, and addressing the real challenges leaders face in delivering good governance today

We also had insights from sector experts:

• Dr Radojka Miljevic – the Independent Chair of the Charity Governance Code Steering Group. She has substantial experience across a range of governance, strategy and research projects and is used to working with the Boards and Executive teams of organisations
• Anna Machin (Lead To) – a chartered governance professional, and brings varied experience as an advisor and company secretary working with non-profit Boards
• Liz Lowther (The Association of Chairs) – a member of the Charity Governance Code steering group, Liz was involved in the development and launch of its most recent update in 2025
• Catherine Biscoe (Buzzacott) – a partner in the Buzzacott Charity & Not for Profit team. She provides audit and advisory services to a wide range of charities, educational institutions and membership bodies.

Who should watch 

• Trustees
• CEOs
• Senior Leaders

Session resources 

• Governance: a guide for international NGOs
• ‘Towards Meaningful Action’ paper
• Board behaviours Research with CEOs and Chairs of Trustees
• Session slides: Buzzacott
• Session slides: Lead To
• Follow-up slides: Association of Chairs
• Follow-up slides: Charity Governance Code Update

Watch the recording

If you have follow-up questions or would like to explore any of the topics in more depth, you’re very welcome to contact Buzzacott: [email protected]