EGBA Applauds Launch of European Gambling Harm Indicators Standard
Introduction to the New European Gambling Harm Standard
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has expressed strong support for the recent introduction of a standardized European framework aimed at identifying markers of harm in gambling. This development is part of a broader push to unify protective measures and promote safer gambling practices throughout the European Union.
Overview of the European Committee for Standardisation’s Publication
On May 31, the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN), through its national standardization bodies, unveiled a comprehensive standard designed to identify signs of potentially harmful gambling behaviors. The goal of this initiative is to establish consistent consumer protection benchmarks across the continent.
Nine Key Indicators of Problem Gambling
The standard highlights nine primary indicators that could signal risky gambling behavior. These are:
- Variations in the amount wagered or the frequency of bets
- The speed or intensity at which gambling occurs
- Frequency, size, or failed attempts at deposits
- Patterns involving withdrawals and canceled withdrawal attempts
- Instances of players initiating contact with operators
- Duration of gambling sessions or gambling activity during specific times of the day
- Engagement with multiple gambling products
- Tracking net losses or loss trends over a period
- Alterations to safety tools such as betting limits and self-exclusion options
The document emphasizes that increased stakes and losses, extended gambling sessions, and modifications to protective mechanisms are strong indicators of problematic gambling behavior.
EGBA’s Response to the New Standard
The EGBA has warmly welcomed the publication of this new standard, highlighting that many of its members already monitor all nine of these warning signs within their operations. The association reiterated its commitment to align member practices fully with these new guidelines to enhance player safety across Europe. Notably, the EGBA was the original proposer of this standard in 2022.
Maarten Haijer, the EGBA’s Secretary General, described the standard’s release as a “significant milestone for enhancing player protection throughout Europe.” He noted that wider adoption among operators would further improve safeguards for gambling customers.
“Our members are already ahead in implementing many parts of this standard and remain dedicated to fully integrating it throughout their European services. We encourage other operators to adopt these guidelines and collectively raise the standard of player protection across Europe,” Haijer said.
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General, EGBA
The EGBA reaffirmed its ongoing support for its members to implement the standard and promote safer gambling initiatives continent-wide.
Additional Industry Context
In related developments, the EGBA has previously criticized a proposal for an EU-wide online gaming tax, describing it as inherently impractical and unworkable, reflecting the association’s commitment to sensible and effective regulation in the sector.
