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WADA postpones 2026 Regional Symposium for Europe

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It is with great regret that the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announces that it has postponed WADA’s Regional Symposium for Europe that was scheduled to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan on 18-19 March 2026, due to the escalating conflict/war in the Middle East. The Agency’s Executive Committee (ExCo) meeting that was also to be held in Baku prior to the Symposium will now be held virtually. 

Please note that given the generosity of our hosts, the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijan National Anti-Doping Agency (AMADA), this decision was not taken lightly. It was, however, taken following careful assessment of current and potential air travel disruptions and safety concerns given recent developments impacting Azerbaijan.   

Ultimately, the wellbeing of Symposium participants and staff is our absolute priority, which made the decision clear. 

We wish to thank our hosts and recognize everyone that was involved in planning for this event, which we know would have been a great success. We are already looking into alternative options for delivering the Symposium’s program, including holding the event in Baku at a later date, as well as virtual options. Please rest assured that we will carefully evaluate the options and communicate as soon as possible. 

In the meantime, for any questions, please feel free to contact: europesymposium2026@wada-ama.org.

As it relates to WADA’s three other 2026 Regional Symposiums, which are planned for Cairo, Beijing, and Lima, please see the registration information below. 

It should be noted that, as it relates to the Cairo event, it is currently maintained as planned. Please rest assured, however, that we will continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East and communicate as soon as possible based on the evolution of the circumstances in the region. 

Registration for other 2026 Regional Symposiums  

For those interested in attending WADA’s other 2026 Regional Symposiums, please note the registration information below:    

1.  Africa: Cairo, Egypt on 28-29 April (opening ceremony the evening of 27 April)  

2.  Asia and Oceania: Beijing, China on 2-3 June (intergovernmental meeting on 1 June 2026)  

  • Registration opening soon 

3.  Americas: Lima, Peru on 13-14 August 

  • Registration to open in May  

About WADA’s 2026 Regional Symposiums 

WADA’s Regional Symposiums aim to address the unique needs and challenges of stakeholders in the different regions in the lead up to implementation of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code (Code) and International Standards (Standards).  The events will be structured around WADA’s 2027 Code Implementation Support Program (CISP) with a strong emphasis on compliance readiness. The primary objectives will be:  

  • to inform stakeholders of the changes and requirements in the 2027 Code and Standards;  
  • to build stakeholders' confidence in implementing the required changes to their anti-doping programs; and  
  • to facilitate connection and collaboration between stakeholders.  

Participants can expect presentations on the Code and Standards that will focus on the technical aspects of preparing for implementation, as well as panel discussions, practical workshops, and networking sessions.