WADA Statement on ‘Nation Bans’

There has been significant public interest lately on the topic of proposed ‘nation bans’ for anti-doping organisations that are non-compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code.

WADA would like to clarify that, as outlined under Article 23.6 of the Code, the only penalties that the Agency can exercise as it relates to non-compliant signatories are ‘forfeiture of offices and positions within WADA’.  It has no jurisdiction over potential ‘Nation Bans’.

Under Article 23 of the World Anti-Doping Code, if WADA declares a country non-compliant, this information is reported to the sports movement and UNESCO; and, it is for them to decide on the consequences of non-compliance.  The IOC's Olympic Charter states that the IOC is 'entitled to exclude from the programme any sport, at any time, if the relevant International Federation governing such sport does not comply with the Olympic Charter or the World Anti-Doping Code.'

It should be noted that, at present, there are no signatories that are formally deemed non-compliant with the Code.  The Agency does however continue to work collaboratively with all signatories to improve their anti-doping programmes so that consistent, quality, anti-doping programs are in place for the protection of athletes worldwide.  And that, compliance will be a priority item on the agenda of the next Foundation Board meeting to be held in November.