The World Anti-Doping Code (Code) represents a unique and unprecedented triumph of Sport and Government joining forces to address a critical problem that continues to threaten public health and the integrity of sport. Their commitment to ridding sport of the scourge of doping was evident in the early stages of the Code’s development, including, as part of an international consultative process, the submission, consideration, and inclusion of many official comments. The result of these efforts is the core document that now provides the framework for harmonized anti-doping policies, rules, and regulations within sport organizations and among public authorities.

In the practical application of the Code, the goal is that all athletes and members of the “athlete entourage” benefit from the same anti-doping procedures and protections, no matter the sport, the nationality, or the country where tested, so that athletes may participate in competition that is safe and fair. In this regard, the Code has proven to be a very powerful and effective tool.

Building on the experience gained to-date and to further advance anti-doping efforts, WADA  has  again initiated a Code consultation period similar to that used in its development and for the revised Code (2009). This will allow a practical review of the Code’s provisions and some fine-tuning to enhance anti-doping programs. The consultation  provides stakeholders with the opportunity to contribute constructively to the improvement of the Code. The 2015 revised Code will be presented to the WADA Foundation Board for endorsement at the Fourth World Conference on Doping in Sport  in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2013.