Striking the Right Balance: Effectiveness of Anti-Doping Policies

Abstract

Doping, and anti-doping, is in the news on a continuous basis. At the core of these stories and discussions is the question how effective anti-doping policies are to curb the use of doping in sports. Anti-doping policies are based on ethical values, a juridical framework, laboratory analyses, educational efforts and the input of numerous other scientific disciplines. An evaluation of the effectiveness of these policies can only be made when this multidisciplinary aspect is truly appreciated. In this thesis various aspects of anti-doping policies are discussed, with specific emphasis on the extent of doping use (both intentional and unintentional), the effectiveness of doping substances and methods, and the consequences of current policies. All available evidence shows that a minority of elite athletes use doping intentionally. Current estimates range from 4-39% The prevalence of doping is considerably different between types of sport, levels and nationalities. Regarding unintentional doping, it can be concluded that in approximately 40% of all anti-doping rule violations the juridical panels involved are not convinced that the athletes concerned were completely at fault, that mitigating circumstances were applicable, or that full responsibility of the suspected violation should not be held against them. Anti-doping organisations should strive to improve this situation in various ways. Valuable evaluations of the effectiveness of anti-doping policies can be performed, and they must be performed far more often. It is clear that improvements in the anti-doping framework can and should be made in order to strengthen it and to strike the right balance between the main task of anti-doping (eradicating doping use) and the burdens the burdens placed on all athletes. This requires a multidisciplinary scientific approach, transparent discussions, and more focus on ‘true’ doping dilemmas. The voice of the athletes is essential in these efforts. With such a concerted effort it can be expected that meaningful policy evaluations, and consequently policy improvements, can be made. This is necessary as a system that fails too many athletes will ultimately implode, no matter how many good intentions have formed its basis. The issue of doping in sports is just too important to let that happen.