Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Struggle: 'No Hope' Amid Political Turmoil

Afghanistan's anti-doping efforts are faltering due to political upheaval and lack of resources post-Taliban resurgence. With no tests conducted for three years and only four managed last year, Chief Dr. Abdul Rahman Hameed highlights challenges like absence of DCOs and essential transport services.

Afghanistan's anti-doping program faces severe setbacks amid the nation's ongoing political instability. With no tests conducted between 2021 and 2024, and only four managed last year, the initiative remains in dire straits.

Dr. Abdul Rahman Hameed, the exiled head of Afghanistan's Anti-Doping Committee, emphasized obstacles such as the absence of Doping Control Officers (DCOs) and lack of transportation services in the war-torn country.

Despite Afghanistan being a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, efforts remain hampered by political woes, in stark contrast to other war-affected regions like Palestine. Hameed calls for the establishment of an autonomous anti-doping agency to revive the program.

(With inputs from agencies.)