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The IOC Executive Board, which concluded two days of meetings in Switzerland on December 5, announced that it will consider withholding accreditation for the Olympic Games for officials of countries that have not paid their dues to WADA. In addition, countries that have not paid could also be barred from bidding to host future Olympic Games.

"We applaud the IOC for taking these steps," said Richard W. POUND, WADA's president. "Making timely payments to WADA is an important part of how a country demonstrates its commitment to anti-doping, and the IOC Executive Board, by taking these actions, shows that the Olympic Movement is willing to encourage countries to make this commitment."

Pound also praised the IOC's statements about the importance of partnership with governments in the fight against doping in sport.

"These statements underline the original philosophy that led to the creation of WADA," he said. "Governments and the sports movement have been equal stakeholders and partners in WADA since our inception. This healthy alliance is crucial if we are to rid sport of doping."

WADA's Foundation Board last month approved measures to suspend representatives of countries that have not paid their dues from the Agency's Board and Executive Committee. It also voted to give governments more time to fulfill their financial commitments. Beginning in 2004, stakeholders will have until June 30 to pay their yearly dues to WADA.