The accountability principle found in Article 5, Section 2 of the GDPR requires data controllers to take responsibility for complying with the GDPR and to be able to demonstrate their compliance1. This means that data controllers must implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure and show that they process personal data in accordance with the GDPR2. One of the measures that can demonstrate compliance with the accountability principle is conducting regular audits of the data protection program. Audits are systematic and independent assessments of the data processing activities and the data protection policies and procedures of an organisation3. They can help to identify and address any gaps or risks in the data protection program, as well as to verify the effectiveness and efficiency of the data protection measures3. Audits can also provide evidence of compliance to the supervisory authorities and the data subjects, as well as to enhance the trust and reputation of the organisation3. Therefore, conducting regular audits of the data protection program is a way to demonstrate compliance with the accountability principle. Reference: 1: CIPP/E study guide, page 15; Art. 5 GDPR; Accountability principle | ICO2: CIPP/E study guide, page 16; Art. 24 GDPR; [Guide to accountability and governance | ICO]3: CIPP/E study guide, page 91; [Auditing | ICO]; [GDPR Audits: What You Need to Know - IT Governance Blog].