FROM SCANDAL TO SOLUTION: A NEW GOVERNANCE MODEL FOR THE WORLD ANTI-DOPING PROGRAM

Authors

• Tazzeel Walker

Abstract

This Article examines the challenges the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) faces in providing a drug-free competitive sporting environment. WADA was established in the 1990s—at the height of the doping epidemic—to manage the fight against doping in sports. Today, WADA monitors over 140 countries and each of which has a National Anti-Doping Organization (National Agency) tasked with enforcing the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) domestically. Given that WADA oversees doping enforcement in so many countries, it relies heavily on the National Agencies to police themselves. However, many of these National Agencies have blatantly disregarded the Code, which makes it more difficult for WADA to carry out its objective. Through the analysis of prominent cases involving Russia, China, and the United States, this Article highlights the systemic deficiencies, particularly the lack of accountability, within the World Anti-Doping Program. The Article suggests that WADA should amend its Code to mandate each National Agency to designate an independent ethics officer, who will be responsible for supervising the agency’s daily operations. The Article further explains how the proposed solution will provide greater transparency and ultimately safeguard athletes’ rights to a fair competition.

Recommended Citation

Tazzeel Walker, FROM SCANDAL TO SOLUTION: A NEW GOVERNANCE MODEL FOR THE WORLD ANTI-DOPING PROGRAM, 48 W. New Eng. L. Rev. 85 (2026), https://digitalcommons.wne.edu/lawreview/vol48/iss1/5