Project: Integrated Reporting Framework (IReF)
The European System of Central Banks (ESCB) launched the Integrated Reporting Framework (IReF) project in 2023, summarised by the principle “define once, report once, regulate once”. The ultimate objective is the integration of statistical and prudential data collections and the automation of processes in order to ultimately improve data quality. IReF focuses on the statistical component, with particular attention to preparing the future integration of prudential reporting.
The key milestones presented below reflect the Eurosystem’s commitment to implement the IReF in a harmonious and efficient manner for all stakeholders. These measures take current geopolitical developments into account, relying more heavily on European technology solutions to strengthen Europe’s digital sovereignty. This will include implementing the IReF within a European cloud.
- First, there will be a public consultation on the draft IReF Regulation, which is planned for the second half of 2027 and will help shape the final legislative proposal.
- Second, during a one‑year pilot phase starting in the second quarter of 2030, reporting agents will be invited to test their ability to fulfil the new IReF data reporting requirements. This testing phase will support the technical and operational preparations of both reporting agents and the Eurosystem, ensuring that structural problems are resolved in time for the first official transmission.
- Third, the first official reporting of IReF data will start in the second quarter of 2031. There will be an initial one-year parallel reporting phase, during which the reporting of existing statistical data within the scope of the IReF will continue alongside IReF reporting.
With a view to ensuring a constructive dialogue during the ongoing implementation phase, the banking industry will receive key information on the IReF reporting requirements ahead of the public consultation on the draft IReF Regulation.
A comprehensive plan for the implementation of the IReF Regulation, including additional methodological and technical details, is currently being prepared. This implementation plan will set out how the individual national collection frameworks will evolve as a result of the IReF. It will ensure a seamless and detailed implementation of the new framework, and clarify how the residual country-specific requirements will be modelled to be consistent with the IReF requirements.
The IReF constitutes a first concrete step towards the integration of statistical, prudential and resolution reporting in the EU, coordination of which is ensured by the Joint Bank Reporting Committee (JBRC). Preparatory work on a common data dictionary (Banks’ Integrated Reporting Dictionary, BIRD), carried out in collaboration with representatives of the banking sector, began in the fourth quarter of 2025. At the same time, the JBRC is working on defining a long‑term strategy for the broader European integrated reporting system and prioritising concrete work streams
ECB press release of 8 June 2026
Resources and documents
Further information
IReF at the BCL
For any questions: iref@bcl.lu
