WADA calls for further development of Caribbean anti-doping programs during forum with Sports Ministers

Today, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) called on Ministers for Sport and other Government representatives from most countries across the Caribbean to continue working collaboratively to protect clean sport and further develop the anti-doping programs in the region.

The virtual forum, which was hosted by WADA President Witold Bańka and Director General Olivier Niggli, is part of a series of such opportunities to gather and exchange views, concerns and ideas with Governments around the world. Similar forums have taken place in other regions of the world and more are planned in the near future.

In his address, WADA President Witold Bańka thanked participants for their commitment to supporting collaborative initiatives between members of the anti-doping community. Mr. Bańka said: “For the global anti-doping doping system to be strong, countries must have strong and relevant anti-doping programs at the national level. To accomplish this, governments play a crucial role and collaboration is key.”

“Having strong testing, investigations and education programs in place to safeguard against doping sends the right message. It shows athletes and others that authorities take the matter seriously and that they are there to support them to compete clean.”

President Bańka was joined by Director General Olivier Niggli, who spoke to participants about the responsibility of anti-doping leaders to harmonize and strengthen the anti-doping system.

Mr. Niggli said: “Those of us in positions of authority must lead by example, taking bold steps to tackle the issues with agility and innovation. We can expand the reach and impact of anti-doping programs by enhancing capacity-building and knowledge-sharing across the world. We can engage and collaborate with each other to increase support, unity and understanding. We can raise awareness and shape a clear message that clean sport is the only sport we will accept and celebrate. And all the time we must engage and empower athletes so their anti-doping journey is easier, so they are part of the decision-making process, and so they can build healthy and sustainable careers in sport. This is how they will inspire the next generation of athletes to do the same.”

Director General Niggli also addressed the significance of education as a vital tool in promoting clean sport and encouraged the Caribbean regions to take advantage of WADA’s Anti-Doping Education and Learning platform, known as ADEL, as well as the training programs and professional standards developed by the Agency for those who work within anti-doping to enhance the capabilities of the anti-doping workforce.