EGBA Advocates for Unified European Safer Gambling Standards

Introduction to EGBA’s Safety Initiative

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) is championing a new European standard aimed at reducing harm in online gambling. This initiative is designed to unify efforts across the continent to make gambling safer and minimize related risks.

Developing Universal Harm Indicators

Recently, the EGBA has requested that national standardization body delegates approve a proposed set of standards during the upcoming vote at the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This voting period closes on September 25, 2025, marking the culmination of a collaborative endeavor that began in 2022.

The standard seeks to create a universally accepted list of behavioral signs that indicate potential problem gambling. Examples of these markers include significant changes in how long and how much an individual gambles online.

This effort reflects EGBA’s commitment to cooperation in promoting safer gambling practices, and it has already garnered support from major industry groups, including the Gambling Regulators European Forum (GREF).

Bringing the Industry Together for Consistent Prevention

While most regulated gambling operators currently utilize their own harm detection systems, there is no single, agreed-upon framework for identifying these harm markers. This lack of standardization has led to inconsistencies across the industry.

EGBA believes that establishing a universal set of harm indicators will help bridge these gaps, providing better protection for players and enhancing industry-wide prevention efforts.

Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the EGBA, emphasized the value of collaborative efforts like this, saying it unites stakeholders to share knowledge and develop solutions for the greater good.

“This EGBA-proposed initiative demonstrates precisely the kind of collaboration we need more of – bringing together stakeholders to share knowledge and experiences to create something for the common good.”

Maarten Haijer, Secretary General, EGBA

Haijer encouraged delegates to support the proposal, noting it will significantly advance Europe’s fight against gambling-related harm.

Should the standards be approved, they are expected to be published by the CEN in early 2026. It is important to note that adoption of this universal standard will be voluntary, leaving the choice to each operator.