COOPERATION OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE MEMBER-STATES IN THE FIELD OF SPORT: INTERNATIONAL LEGAL ASPECTS

Abstract

The article examines the role of the Council of Europe in regulating international legal relations in the field of sport. The emphasis is placed on the need for a mechanism for such regulation and the attraction of efforts by an increasing number of states and organizations. The article covers the areas of sports activities that the Council of Europe is engaged in, such as the fight against doping in sport, the fight against corruption in sport and the manipulation on sports competitions, as well as counteracting violence and inappropriate behaviour by spectators during sports events. A chronology of the urgency of sports relations in the international arena is examined, based on the adoption of international legal acts by the Council of Europe and coverage of sports issues. The emphasis is placed on various programs on important issues in the field of sport, such as gender equality, healthcare, safety during the competitions. The focus is made on sports committees or other similar bodies established within this international organization as a platform for intergovernmental dialogue and cooperation between Member States in this field. The nature and status of the Extended Partial Agreement on Sport is also explored. An important aspect of the study is the Council of Europe fight against sports corruption and manipulation on sports competitions. The importance of this organization in the international arena is described due to its tireless work on the adoption of international legal instruments and the implementation of a number of activities created to promote fair sport. The article also shows the possibility of resolving disputes in sport in the European Court of Human Rights, in order to help athletes to exercise international protection of their rights. It is concluded that the Council of Europe has established certain legal norms and foundations for the cooperation of European states that influence the development of sport in Europe and provide an example for imitation by other continents. Key words: sports activity, international legal relations, sports relations, Council of Europe, regulation.