Netherlands Strengthens Efforts to Tackle Gambling Addiction with Renewed Program
Renewed Commitment to Gambling Addiction Prevention in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is intensifying its strategy to combat gambling-related issues through the renewal of the Gambling Addiction Prevention initiative. This effort is a collaboration between the Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit or KSA) and ZonMw, an organization dedicated to fostering innovation in health, healthcare, and well-being.
Substantial Funding Boost to Support the Program
The renewed program has secured an additional investment of EUR 21 million, ensuring its operation until 2030. This funding will be utilized by the KSA and ZonMw to enhance preventative measures and treatment options related to gambling harm. A significant portion will be directed towards funding new research projects aimed at better understanding and addressing gambling addiction.
The program focuses on five essential pillars: analyzing the behavior of vulnerable gamblers, early identification of risks, effective intervention and treatment, incorporating experiences of those affected, and fostering a shared understanding of gambling harm.
ZonMw will oversee the commissioning of studies and actively encourage emerging researchers to contribute to the study of gambling-related harm.
KSA and ZonMw’s Joint Effort to Mitigate Gambling Harm
The latest phase of the program was inaugurated on August 28th by Michel Groothuizen, chair of the KSA, and Véronique Timmerhuis, General Director of ZonMw. Groothuizen emphasized that protecting players remains a top priority for the KSA, highlighting that the ongoing program will provide valuable insights into effective harm reduction.
Timmerhuis recognized gambling addiction as a significant social challenge facing the Netherlands. She stated that the continued efforts will focus on gathering critical data to implement safer gambling practices. Drawing on ZonMw’s considerable expertise from other mental health areas, the program aims to explore connections between gambling addiction and other forms of addiction.
The KSA also pointed out the severe consequences linked to gambling addiction, including financial difficulties, social problems, depression, substance abuse, and suicide. Both organizations are committed to improving the speed and effectiveness of support available to those harmed by gambling.
Recent Changes in the Dutch Government
In related news, Teun Struycken, the Dutch State Secretary for Legal Protection responsible for gambling oversight, recently resigned in protest against the government’s decision not to impose sanctions on Israel amid the conflict in Palestine. His resignation followed similar departures by other ministers, including Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp.
