SL hosts 18th Asia/Oceania Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport

Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) Director, Legal and Enforcement Unit S.S.P. Darshana Gallage, Director General Dr. Seevali Jayawickreme, Sports and Youth Affairs Ministry Secretary K. Mahesan at the 18th Asia/Oceania Inter-governmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport

The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency hosted the 18th Asia/Oceania Region Intergovernmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport (AORIM) on 12-13 June, 2023 at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel, Colombo. The event was organised in collaboration with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

With the establishment of the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) in 2013 under the Convention against Doping in Sport Act no. 33, SLADA was able to guide and act as the national regulatory body to eradicate all forms of doping from Sri Lanka Sports. SLADA is now a fully-fledged unit and has achieved many firsts for the region including being one of the first to criminalise trafficking in sport and introduce legislation to punish the athlete entourage.

The SLADA believes hosting this meeting in Sri Lanka during these challenging economic times not only enhances the country’s global image as a safe destination but also contributes to strengthening international relations, making it a drug-free competitive environment in the region. The Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency aspired to bring together all anti-doping stakeholders of the region to collectively work towards improving the implementation of comprehensive and sustainable programs, thus reinforcing the protection of clean athletes.

SLADA Chairman Prof. Arjuna De Silva said at the event:  “The participation of Asia and Oceania in the global fight against doping in sports holds immense significance, given the substantial population and youth representation in these regions. This meeting serves as a platform to foster solidarity among all attending countries, showcasing their progress and achievements in the fight against doping. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this event. Together, we can share knowledge, exchange experiences, and reinforce our commitment to creating a clean and fair sporting environment.”

The 18th AORIM was an excellent opportunity for participating governments to gain insight into the challenges specific to the Asia/Oceania region and understand the roles and responsibilities that governments bear under the Code. The meeting also featured in-depth discussions on WADA’s strategic priorities for 2023 and beyond, offering valuable guidance for future endeavours.

Commenting on the significant event, SLADA Director General Dr. Seevali Jayawickreme said:, “The threat posed by prohibited substances and methods in sports is a global concern, and our primary focus must be on protecting athletes and their support personnel. Through education and raising awareness about the consequences of doping, we can mitigate this risk and ensure clean sport worldwide. I am excited about the opportunity presented by the 18th Asia/Oceania Inter-governmental Ministerial Meeting on Anti-Doping in Sport. The forum  provided a platform to discuss the strengths and weaknesses within our region and we are eager to learn from regional developments and research studies. This knowledge enables us to make informed decisions and develop effective policies based on evidence-based findings.”

The event was graced by the presence of eight Ministers from countries across the Asia/Oceania region, and delegates from more than 36 countries. Additionally, the World Anti-Doping Agency was represented by ten esteemed members, including the President, Vice President, and the CEO.