The implementation of an updated IIBU constitution and a new strategic plan has moved a step closer ©IBU

The implementation of an updated International Biathlon Union (IBU) constitution and a new strategic plan has moved a step closer after the first draft of the two documents was finalised by the Executive Board.

Among the key features of the constitution is the creation of a Biathlon Integrity Unit, which will handle anti-doping and ethical procedures at the global governing body.

Both documents are due to be presented at the IBU's Extraordinary Congress in Munich from October 18 to 20.

It comes as part of reform efforts by the IBU as the organisation attempts to move on from a tumultuous period under former President Anders Besseberg.

Bessberg and former secretary general Nicole Resch, who deny wrongdoing, are the subject of a criminal investigation focused on doping, fraud and corruption.

The IBU revealed it will send the altered constitution and strategic plan to its 55 full Member Federations and two provisional members for feedback before it is approved at the Extraordinary Congress.

"When the Executive Board and I had the honour of being elected at last year’s Congress, we made a commitment to reform the IBU and update our constitution in line with international best practice," said IBU President Olle Dahlin. 

"We also committed to creating a strategic plan which would guide biathlon’s future and realise our sport’s huge potential."

IBU President Olle Dahlin has spearheaded the reform efforts ©Getty Images
IBU President Olle Dahlin has spearheaded the reform efforts ©Getty Images

The Biathlon Integrity Unit will be designed to manage all integrity related matters concerning biathlon.

This will involve anti-doping, ethical breaches, betting-related issues and any other kind of result manipulation.

The IBU claim it will help prevent future wrongdoing following the scandal involving the previous leadership.

Reforms to the constitution have been developed by the External Review Commission, launched in the wake of the scandal involving Besseberg and Resch and chaired by English lawyer Jonathan Taylor.

"The IBU’s draft Constitution reflects best international practice and puts in place a strong structure to protect the integrity of the sport," said Taylor.

"The establishment of a Biathlon Integrity Unit implementing a state-of-the-art integrity code guarantees that all integrity-related matters concerning biathlon, including anti-doping as well as ethical breaches, are dealt with by a specialist body that is independent of the Executive Board and the IBU staff."

The IBU has already adopted a new IBU Code of Ethics, appointed a new IBU Ethics Commission and an IBU ethics and compliance officer and established a whistleblower policy.