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ISO 37000:2021: the first international standard on governance of organizations

Leadership team meeting
In short: ISO 37000:2021, Governance of organizations — Guidance, provides principles and practices for governing bodies to ensure organizations fulfil their purpose effectively, responsibly and ethically.

What are the core principles?

The standard centres on purpose, supported by principles such as value generation, strategy, oversight, accountability, stakeholder engagement, leadership, data and decisions, risk governance, social responsibility and viability over time.

Why does it matter for excellence?

Strong governance underpins leadership and strategy — core criteria in organizational excellence models.

Key takeaways

  • ISO 37000 focuses on governing bodies.
  • Purpose is the central principle.
  • Governance links to leadership and strategy in excellence models.

Frequently asked questions

Is ISO 37000 certifiable?

No. It is guidance.

Who is it for?

Boards and governing bodies of organizations of all types and sizes.

How does it relate to management systems?

It sets the governance context within which management systems operate.