Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) Practice Exam

In the COSO framework, which internal control component becomes a major concern in the case of favoritism by a board chairman?

1. Control Environment

2. Risk Assessment

3. Monitoring

4. Control Activities

The correct answer is: Control Environment

The correct answer highlights the significance of the Control Environment within the COSO framework. The Control Environment serves as the foundation for all other internal control components and establishes the culture within which an organization operates. It encompasses the governance structure, ethical values, and an organization's commitment to integrity and accountability, which are crucial when addressing concerns such as favoritism by a board chairman. When favoritism is observed, it raises serious questions about the ethical climate of the organization and the effectiveness of its governance practices. Such behavior could undermine the integrity and objectivity expected from those in leadership positions, impacting the overall control environment. If the control environment is compromised, it can lead to a breakdown in trust and create risks that influence how effectively the organization achieves its objectives. In this context, the concerns raised by favoritism would naturally lead to a reassessment of the control environment to ensure that ethical standards and governance policies are upheld, establishing a culture of fairness and accountability. This focus on the control environment is essential for maintaining effective internal controls and ensuring that all operations align with the organization's objectives and ethical standards.