Canada to investigate World Anti-Doping Agency
Canada’s Privacy Commissioner Launches Investigation into World Anti-Doping Agency
Canada’s privacy commissioner is launching an investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency.
The move comes after Philippe Dufresne’s office received a complaint about the Montreal-based agency’s handling of biological samples collected from athletes.
In a release, the office says the investigation will examine whether the collection, use, and disclosure practices of WADA comply with Canada’s federal private-sector privacy law (known as PIPEDA, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).
The investigation follows a complaint alleging that WADA has disclosed personal information to international sporting federations.
The complaint also alleges that the information is being used to assess athletes’ sex-based eligibility without their knowledge or consent, and for a purpose that would not be considered appropriate under the privacy law.
A message left with WADA was not immediately returned.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 12, 2024
New Investigation Launched into WADA’s Privacy Practices
Canada’s privacy commissioner has initiated a thorough investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) following a complaint regarding the agency’s handling of athletes’ biological samples. The complaint, which sparked this investigation, raises concerns about WADA’s collection, use, and disclosure practices in relation to personal information.
The focus of the investigation is to determine whether WADA’s actions align with Canada’s federal private-sector privacy law, PIPEDA. Specifically, the complaint alleges that WADA has been sharing athletes’ personal information with international sporting federations without proper consent or knowledge. Additionally, it is claimed that this information is being used to evaluate athletes’ eligibility based on sex without appropriate authorization.
WADA, headquartered in Montreal, has yet to respond to these allegations. The privacy commissioner’s office is committed to thoroughly examining the situation to ensure that privacy rights are upheld and respected within the realm of anti-doping practices.
As this investigation unfolds, the public awaits further developments regarding WADA’s compliance with privacy regulations and the protection of athletes’ personal data.
