Why in news?
India has been re‑elected as the Vice‑Chairperson for the Asia–Pacific group in the Bureau of the Conference of Parties to the International Convention against Doping in Sport. The decision was taken at the 10th session of the conference held in Paris from 20–22 October 2025, marking the 20th anniversary of this global treaty.
Background
The International Convention against Doping in Sport is a multilateral treaty adopted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on 19 October 2005. It entered into force on 1 February 2007 and has been ratified by nearly all UN member states. The convention obliges countries to harmonise their anti‑doping rules with the World Anti‑Doping Code, provide education on clean sport, support doping control laboratories and cooperate in the fight against doping. By joining, governments endorse the principle that the use of banned substances and methods in sport undermines fairness, endangers athletes’ health and must be eradicated.
COP10 highlights
- Governance and financing: Delegates reviewed the operation of the convention, discussed strengthening the Anti‑Doping Fund and considered proposals to ensure stable contributions from member states.
- Emerging issues: Participants examined gene manipulation, doping in electronic sports and advances in detection technologies. They emphasised the need to adapt rules to new threats while preserving athletes’ rights.
- Values education: India advocated integrating Values Education through Sport (VETS) into the convention so that ethical training complements testing and enforcement. The meeting agreed to incorporate education on integrity and fair play into anti‑doping programmes.
- Role of India: As vice‑chair, India will help steer the convention’s work over the next two years, promote regional cooperation and contribute expertise from its own National Anti‑Doping Agency.
Significance
- Protecting athlete health and fairness: A strong global framework discourages the use of performance‑enhancing drugs and safeguards the rights of clean competitors.
- Promoting international cooperation: The convention fosters sharing of scientific information, best practices and resources among nations to enhance testing and education.
- Upholding India’s image: By taking a leadership role, India demonstrates its commitment to clean sport and sets an example for the region.
Conclusion
Twenty years after its adoption, the International Convention against Doping in Sport remains the only global legal instrument tackling doping. Continued vigilance, education and collaboration will be vital to keep sport fair and protect athletes from the dangers of banned substances.
Source: Press Information Bureau