NAVEX Unveils Key Trends in Governance, Risk, and Compliance for 2026

NAVEX’s Insight on GRC Trends for 2026

NAVEX, a leading global provider in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) software, headquartered in Lake Oswego, Oregon, has released its forecast for key trends in the GRC sector for 2026. With a growing focus on effective risk management strategies, NAVEX’s recent findings shed light on vital areas organizations must address to safeguard themselves in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The Evolution of Internal Reporting

According to NAVEX's "Whistleblowing & Incident Management Benchmark Report," the content of internal reports and risk disclosures is becoming increasingly diverse. Organizations are facing a growing number of cross-departmental risks that cannot be confined to specific areas, making management more complex. High-impact risks, such as the utilization of generative AI, harassment responses, and cross-border data management, are not just theoretical problems any longer but are often initiated and escalated at ground levels. As organizations adapt, the previously distinct separation in governance and management frameworks is beginning to blur.

AI Utilization Visibility

In NAVEX’s prior research, it was revealed that 36% of employees in Japanese organizations indicated active involvement with AI technologies. This shift shows that AI discussions have moved beyond whether to implement such technologies to how they are actively integrated into daily operations. However, an increasing number of organizations are struggling to keep track of which AI tools are used in what capacities and under whose authority. This disconnection can lead to incidents where organizations cannot adequately explain the rationale behind their decisions. By 2026, AI governance is expected to transition from merely establishing guidelines to ensuring that organizations can comprehend and articulate actual usage and decision-making processes surrounding AI integration.

Effectiveness of Harassment Policies

Many companies have instituted formal systems and training for harassment prevention. However, while many organizations may appear compliant on the surface, the quality and consistency in addressing reported issues remain largely opaque. Employees' confidence in these mechanisms is crucial; concerns about whether they will be supported after speaking up persist. As we look toward 2026, the focus will shift from simply having these mechanisms in place to demonstrating their effectiveness in real-world applications. Organizations will need to provide clear insights into how situations are evaluated and the processes employed for resolution.

Importance of Governance in Cross-Border Data Management

As businesses continue to expand internationally, they face various cross-border risks, including anti-corruption measures and compliance with export controls. While organizations are developing policies to comply with personal data protection laws, actual management of data transfers often lacks transparency. The emphasis is moving from identifying violations to understanding how well organizations can manage and govern these risks proactively. By 2026, evaluations will no longer focus solely on compliance but on the capacity to monitor and govern data handling comprehensively.

Conclusion

Naoki Mitsutani, the country manager for NAVEX Japan, emphasizes that emerging trends like the use of generative AI, harassment response, and cross-border data management signal a critical need for organizations to explain their practices and governance structures clearly. The upcoming changes point towards a future where GRC is not just a framework for avoiding risks but a demonstration of an organization's governance strength. NAVEX remains committed to helping businesses visualize and manage these complex risks by facilitating a continuous process of decision-making and response management.

About NAVEX

NAVEX is a trusted provider for over 13,000 organizations, including 75% of Fortune 100 and 500 companies, excelling in governance, risk, and compliance management solutions. Their NAVEX One platform enhances organizational strength by leveraging top industry benchmark data and insights for robust risk-compliance programs. With global headquarters in Lake Oswego, Oregon, NAVEX drives innovation in the GRC landscape. For more information, visit NAVEX’s official website or their social media channels.