PSB Implements Code of Ethics for Sports Federations in line with the Olympic Charter

The 31st Board meeting of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) approved several transformative measures aimed at improving the governance of sports federations in Pakistan. Key reforms include the establishment of an independent Election Commission to oversee federation elections, the creation of a special tribunal to address disputes, complaints, and appeals, and aligning federation governance frameworks with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Charter. Additionally, the cash reward for international medal-winning athletes has been increased to PKR 10 million, along with the introduction of a Gold Card for champion athletes.

The meeting, chaired by Rana Sanaullah Khan, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Inter-Provincial Coordination and President of the PSB, was held on Wednesday which approved reforms in line with the IOC Charter’s principles of good governance, reflecting best practices already adopted in countries like the UK, Australia, and Switzerland.

The key decisions approved in the 31st Board meeting of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) include Introduction of the Pakistan Code of Ethics and Governance in Sports (PCEGS). This framework ensures transparency and integrity in the management of sports federations. It provides mechanisms to combat corruption, doping, and nepotism while aligning with national laws and international standards.

The Establishment of the PSB Election Commission is a major step towards ensuring transparency and fairness in the elections of national sports federations. The new, independent Election Commission will oversee all elections, ensuring free, fair, and transparent processes. This decision follows directives from the Islamabad High Court and aligns with the principles set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The Creation of a Dedicated Tribunal for Sports Governance Disputes aims to address any disputes, complaints, and appeals related to sports governance. This specialized tribunal will operate with the highest ethical standards and provide impartial and timely resolutions to ensure smooth functioning within the sports federations.

Furthermore, the Adoption of a Model Constitution for Federations mandates that all sports federations align their governance frameworks with the IOC Charter and the governance structures of their respective international federations. This move is expected to reinforce transparency and autonomy within sports federations across the country.

Lastly, the Revised Cash Award Policy and Gold Card Introduction were approved to encourage and reward top athletes. International gold medalists will now receive a cash reward of up to PKR 10 million.

 Additionally, medal-winning athletes will be granted Gold Cards, which will allow them access to Pakistan Sports Board facilities throughout the country, providing them with enhanced support and resources.

Except President POA, who opposed the promulgation of Code of Ethics, Election Commission and Panel of Adjudicators in line with the good governance principles of the IOC charter, all the Board members unanimously approved these decisions. The other Board members include Nadeem Irshad Kayani, Secretary Ministry of IPC/V.P PSB, Syed Mohammad Abid Qadri Gillani, President POA, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Mukhtar, Chairman HEC, Asiam Ul Haq, President PTF, Alamgir A. Sheikh, Chairman PB&SA, and Ronak Iqbal Lakani, Chairperson SOP  and DG PSB also attended this meeting as members of the PSB board.