Conference on Anabolic Androgenic Steroids

The conference was focusing on “How can society meet the challenge of drug abuse?” This was the second Nordic conference on AAS.

International lecturers from the Nordic countries and the US contributed with their knowledge and experience related to the topic. Jack Robertson and Shane Davis from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the US explained the process around Operation Raw Deal and why it was a success.

International solutions
They stressed that doping & crime are an international problem that requires international solutions. They underlined that there is a need for better collaboration between the Police Authorities across borders, as well as it is necessary to follow up the political aspect of the problem.

On a national level, they believe it is important to focus on better laws and legislations, as well as create a good cooperation between the Police and local anti-doping organisations. Furthermore, they inform that the unveiling of systematic doping in American sport in the beginning of the 21st century would have not been possible without a close collaboration between the Police and anti-doping authorities in the US.

Shall doping be criminalized?
One of the main questions raised was: Shall doping be criminalized in Norway?

Cecilia Fant, representing Sweden’s National Criminal Police and with a long experience in the field, says there is no doubt doping use should be criminalized. She is convinced that in that way, it will make it much more difficult for young users to start with doping. Ms Fant underlined that the use of narcotics and steroids go hand in hand with each other. Nowadays, the local dealer is a global businessman. With internet, the distribution of drugs is so much easier. The profit is huge, the risk low and the sentence for being caught relatively low.

In Norway, the use and possession of drugs are not part of today’s legislation.

Anders Solheim, Chief Executive Officer in Anti-Doping Norway, states that Anti-Doping Norway wishes a criminalization of doping use in Norway. At the same time, it is also important to put more efforts and resources into prevention and education activities, and focus on a good collaboration between the Police, Customs, Health Authorities and anti-doping organizations.