Accreditation: Explained Simply

Accreditation means official approval given to an organization after checking that it can do its work correctly and fairly.

We hear this word in many situations. Journalists are accredited when recognized by the government. Ambassadors are accredited when accepted by another country. Schools, colleges, and hospitals are accredited when they meet quality standards.

This article focuses on accreditation of organizations that test, inspect, certify, or verify things, such as laboratories and certification bodies, including those working in the climate and environment field.
 

Who Sets the Standards?

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) writes standards used worldwide. However, ISO does not give accreditation. It only publishes standards.

Accreditation is given by independent organizations called accreditation bodies.
 

Who Gives Accreditation?

Most countries have one or more accreditation bodies.

• Europe has one official accreditation body per country.
• Many developing countries usually have one main accreditation body.
• Countries like the USA and Japan have several private accreditation bodies.
• India has both government and private accreditation bodies.

Some accreditation bodies even serve more than one country.
 

Is There a Global System?

Yes. Countries trust each other’s accreditation through a global system.

Earlier, this system was managed by:

I. International Accreditation Forum (IAF)

II. International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC)

From 1 January 2026, both merged into one body:

• Global Accreditation Cooperation Inc. (GACI)

This system allows certificates and test reports issued in one country to be accepted in others, supporting international trade.

 

Is Accreditation Mandatory?

Usually, no. Accreditation is voluntary.

However, many governments require accreditation in their rules. For example, regulators may accept test reports or certificates only from accredited organizations, especially in food safety, energy, and environmental sectors.
 

Are There Other Systems?

Yes. Some governments, UN agencies, and private international schemes run their own approval systems.

Well-known examples include:

• Verra
• GlobalGAP
• FSSC 22000
• SA 8000
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
• Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)

These systems are important for exports and global business.
 

Beware of Fake Accreditation

Because accreditation is not tightly regulated, some organizations falsely claim to give accreditation. Their certificates are not trusted internationally and can mislead businesses and consumers.
 

In Short

Accreditation helps build trust by confirming competence. The global system led by GACI is the most widely accepted, but other credible systems also exist. Knowing the difference between genuine and fake accreditation is essential.
 

Article Written By
Dr. Sanjay Seth
Managing Director
BSCIC Certifications Pvt. Ltd.