ICAS Releases Seventh Edition of Global SRO Database and Factbook

The International Council for Advertising Self-Regulation (ICAS) has proudly launched the seventh edition of its Global SRO Database and Factbook, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability in advertising self-regulation worldwide.

Since 2017, ICAS has been gathering key data on self-regulatory organizations (SROs) across different markets, offering a clearer picture of how they operate. By providing this information, ICAS aims to enhance understanding among industry stakeholders, regulators, and the general public about the role and effectiveness of advertising self-regulation.

What’s Included?

The latest edition offers an in-depth look at various aspects of SRO operations, including:

• Governance and Funding Models – Insights into how SROs are structured and financed.
• Advertising Standards – Direct links to national advertising regulations and codes of conduct.
• Complaints-Handling Processes – Details on how consumer complaints are managed.
• Key Statistics from 2023 – Data on SRO services such as pre-clearance, copy advice, and complaint resolutions.
• Monitoring and Training – Overview of how SROs support responsible advertising through monitoring and educational initiatives.
• Technological Advancements – Insights into how SROs are leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance regulatory efficiency and impact.

A Global Perspective

The 2024 edition includes data from 28 markets spanning Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East. It features information from the world’s largest and longest-standing SROs, providing a comprehensive view of global self-regulation practices.

Two Ways to Access the Data

The ICAS research is presented in two formats:

1. The Global SRO Database – An online tool offering standardized data to facilitate cross-market comparisons and enhance transparency.
2. The Global SRO Factbook – A complementary resource providing aggregated insights, contextual analysis, and regional highlights to help stakeholders understand local and global self-regulatory trends.

With this latest edition, ICAS continues to support a responsible advertising ecosystem by promoting best practices and fostering international collaboration in self-regulation.