RADO Program

WADA created the Regional Anti-Doping Organization (RADO) Program in 2004 to strengthen the protection of clean sport by developing innovative anti-doping strategies for those countries that needed it most. The Program supports less resourced National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs) and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) acting as NADOs by providing funding, training, and ongoing anti-doping assistance. The RADO Program currently assists 12 RADOs and 119 countries across the world.

RADO Program Objectives

The RADO Program aims to to deliver high-quality anti-doping services and programs among RADO member countries, focusing resources on those who have the greatest needs.

The overall objectives are:

  • Strengthening RADO Governance: the RADO Program focuses on equipping RADOs with the structures, policies, and resources needed to operate transparently, efficiently, and in line with the World Anti-Doping Code (the Code) and International Standards. This will be achieved through targeted support in two main areas: organizational governance and financial sustainability. The goal is to empower RADOs to take ownership of their governance systems and function as credible, professional organizations capable of delivering strong, Code-compliant anti-doping programs.
  • Building RADO Capacity and Capability: WADA will support this objective by working closely with RADOs to strengthen the technical, operational, and program capacity of their member countries. The focus will be on key areas such as staffing, Testing Grant implementation, program development, education, results management, and project execution. This approach positions RADOs not only as implementers but also as facilitators of development—advancing clean sport through tailored support, peer collaboration, and reinforced program infrastructure across their regions.
  • Supporting Compliance: RADOs must take a proactive role in engaging with their member countries’ compliance status and providing timely support. This includes guiding countries through corrective actions, ensuring understanding of regulatory requirements, and supporting the implementation of Code-compliant anti-doping programs. 
  • Strengthening Stakeholder Engagement: The RADO Program focuses on equipping the RADOs with the necessary tools to collaborate effectively across sectors, aligning with WADA’s broader engagement efforts, and contributing meaningfully to the global anti-doping movement. By strengthening stakeholder engagement at all levels, RADOs will expand their influence, increase national support, and build collaborative networks that improve the quality and sustainability of anti-doping programs in their regions.

RADOs Role

  • volley-players

    RADOs play a vital role in supporting NADOs and NOCs acting as NADOs, particularly in countries with limited capacity and resources. RADO member countries may delegate specific areas of their national anti-doping programs to their respective RADO through a Delegated Third-Party Agreement. However, the RADO member country remains fully responsible for ensuring any delegated program area is compliant with the Code and is conducted under the country’s national anti-doping rules.