Sweden Set to Sign the Macolin Convention to Combat Match Fixing
Sweden is making a significant move to safeguard the integrity of sports by announcing its intention to sign the Macolin Convention on the Manipulation of Sports Competitions. This decision is welcomed by the Swedish gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, as a crucial step forward in the nation’s fight against match fixing.
Macolin Convention
Adopted by the Council of Europe in 2014, the Macolin Convention provides a comprehensive legal framework to combat the manipulation of sports competitions. It commits signatory nations to protect the integrity and ethics of sports against the threat of result manipulation.
Since coming into force in 2019, the convention has attracted 34 signatories, including 32 European countries, Australia, and Morocco. Countries such as France, Italy, and Switzerland have ratified the convention, reinforcing their commitment to eradicating sports corruption.
The Swedish Ministry of Social Affairs has confirmed that Sweden meets all the necessary requirements to join the convention without needing any constitutional amendments. This means the country can proceed with accession without requiring parliamentary approval. By aligning with the Macolin Convention, Sweden emphasizes its dedication to preserving fair play in sports and enhancing international collaboration.
Camilla Rosenberg, Director General of Spelinspektionen, expressed strong support for the government’s decision. She stated, “The Swedish Gaming Authority endorses and welcomes the government’s proposal that Sweden should sign and ratify the Macolin Convention as soon as possible. It would deepen international cooperation and strengthen Sweden’s position in the work against match fixing.”
Signing the Macolin Convention will require Swedish authorities to collaborate closely with sports organizations, betting operators, and competition organizers to effectively prevent and detect sports manipulation. This partnership is essential for implementing preventive measures and establishing robust response mechanisms to any incidents of match fixing.
International Momentum Against Match Fixing
Sweden’s move follows Spain’s recent accession to the Macolin Convention. Last month, the Spanish gambling regulator, the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ), announced that Spain had officially joined the convention.
The DGOJ highlighted this development as a fundamental step in fighting sports manipulation and safeguarding sports integrity, positioning Spain among the pioneers in eradicating such malpractice. The convention will come into effect for Spain on February 1, 2025.
The increasing number of countries joining the Macolin Convention signals a strong international commitment to combating match fixing. By uniting under a common legal framework, these nations enhance information sharing, improve regulatory practices, and foster a collaborative environment to tackle the complexities of sports manipulation.
