Jakarta Globe | March 22, 2013 http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/badminton/bwfs-london-2012-stand-for-integrity-saluted/581196 The Badminton World Federation’s actions in defense of its sport’s integrity at last summer’s London Olympics have been recognized by the International Center for Sport Security and Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University, according to the world badminton governing body’s official website. At a ceremony in Doha, Qatar, on Monday, BWF secretary general Thomas Lund accepted the inaugural trophy for “Outstanding Achievement in Promoting Sport Integrity” for BWF’s decision to disqualify four women’s doubles pairs from the Olympics for “not using one’s best efforts to win a match” and “conducting oneself in a manner that is clearly abusive or detrimental to the sport.” Speaking on the opening night of the Securing Sport 2013 conference, Mohammed Hanzab, ICSS president said: “It gives me enormous pleasure to present the inaugural ICSS-Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University Trophy to the Badminton World Federation for showing us all at the Olympic Games last year that courageous decisions with immediate consequences are not only necessary but highly effective in dealing with integrity challenges.” BWF President Kang Young-Joong said, “The London 2012 case has definitely been a learning curve for the BWF and we are committed to doing what it takes to ensure this never happens again. Being recognized by the ICSS and the Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University today gives us further assurance that our sport upholds the right values.” Lund added that the BWF was “honored” to accept the prize for promoting integrity in sport, despite the unfortunate circumstances that prompted the recognition. “No sport wishes to have its integrity and commitment to proper ethical behavior tested. However, when such incidents arise, it’s essential to stand firm and take appropriate action. The BWF would have liked to avoid the Olympic disqualifications altogether but we are confident that, as the world governing organization for badminton, we took the right decision,” Lund said. There are five criteria set for the prize, including demonstration of clear action in dealing with an integrity breach and clear commitment to integrity. The ICSS is an international nonprofit institution that aims to help event organizers to stage safer major sporting events. Its mission is to improve security, safety and integrity in sport by addressing real issues and providing world-leading services, skills, networks and knowledge.
