The International Platform for Sport Ethics & Integrity (IPSEI) notes with regret the postponement of WADA’s 2026 Regional Symposium for Europe, originally scheduled to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan on 18–19 March 2026.

At a time when the European antidoping community is entering an important phase of preparation ahead of the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards, gatherings of this kind carry significance far beyond their formal agenda. They create space for alignment, trust, exchange, and shared direction.

IPSEI also wishes to express its sincere respect and appreciation to the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and to the Azerbaijan National Anti-Doping Agency (AMADA), whose commitment, professionalism, and extensive preparations demonstrated a clear dedication to hosting the European antidoping community at the highest level.

While the Regional Symposium has been postponed, the need for continuity across the wider sport integrity field remains unchanged. Maintaining professional connection, visibility of initiatives, and opportunities for exchange remains essential.

IPSEI will continue to support visibility, connection, and engagement across the community in the period ahead.

The importance of Baku as a meeting point for the European antidoping community has not been diminished by this postponement, and we look forward to a new date for the Symposium in Baku being confirmed.

The official WADA announcement is available here:
https://www.wada-ama.org/en/news/wada-postpones-2026-regional-symposium-europe