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What role does international sports law play in shaping public opinion and policy on issues like doping, athlete welfare, and fair competition?

Xavier Siddele

International sports law has become a critical aspect of the global sports arena. In today's world, sports play an essential role in shaping public opinion and policy, especially regarding issues such as doping, athlete welfare, and fair competition. International sports law has, therefore, become an integral part of the governance and management of sports organizations worldwide.

Firstly, international sports law plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion regarding doping. The law ensures that all athletes face equal competition, without any form of performance enhancement drug use. With testing and enforcement protocols in place, international sports law ensures the integrity of sporting events and prevents the negative impact of doping on public opinion about sport. Additionally, such measures ensure the health and welfare of athletes who continually strive for excellence, often risking their health to achieve their athletic goals.

Secondly, international sports law is instrumental in shaping public policy regarding athlete welfare. The law establishes a duty of care towards athletes, making it mandatory for sports organizations to ensure that athletes' welfare is of paramount importance. The law compels such organizations to mediate and mitigate any hazards that may pose a threat to athletes' health, such as inadequate medical care, substandard training facilities, and improper nutrition. This legal framework engenders public trust and respect towards sporting organizations responsible for ensuring the welfare of athletes.

Finally, international sports law helps to shape policy towards ensuring fair sporting competition. International sports law ensures that sporting organizations regulate fair play and ethical conduct in all competitions. For example, international sports law requires that sports organizations develop and enforce rules against match-fixing and bribery. As a result, fair competition and integrity in sporting events are maintained, leading to a high level of public confidence and a positive impact on the sporting world.

In conclusion, international sports law plays an essential role in the shaping of public opinion and policy regarding various issues in sports, including doping, athlete welfare, and fair competition. These issues have significant implications, not just for sports organizations but for society as a whole. Therefore, the proper functioning of international sports law has become a critical aspect of the governance and management of sports worldwide. Sporting organization must continue to support this framework, which ensures trust and confidence in sports competitions and enhances the global impact of sports on society.