Unwanted gambling advertisements persist despite public disapproval: Explanation sought for continued presence
Lost in the Spin of Gambling Ads? Let's dive into the ongoing debate on restricting gambling advertisements and weigh the arguments for and against. From the bustling streets of London to the sunny shores of Sydney, this topic has sparked heated discussions among the public, government, industry, and advocates for responsible gambling.
In the Netherlands, the Dutch Gambling Authority has set the bar high by enforcing stringent advertising rules, while Italy has completely eliminated gambling advertisements. New Jersey residents are voicing their support for reduced gambling advertisements, indicating a growing public opposition to these ads.
Why aren't stricter rules being implemented globally? It seems major jurisdictions are reluctant to act, leaving many to question if limiting the intensity of gambling advertising truly serves consumers or merely empowers the black market.
The Countdown to Change
Public sentiment towards so-called "sin industries," such as gambling, has traditionally leaned towards stricter regulations. However, recent setbacks, like the revised plans for reducing slot machines in New South Wales, Australia, highlight the challenges of implementing such proposals.
A UK poll commissioned by CEGA reveals that 51% of respondents support a complete ban on gambling advertisements, a stance mirrored by the Italian government. This opposition transcends borders, finds support in Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Research by the Royal Society for Public Health shows that an overwhelming majority (nearly two-thirds of adults and over half of young people) back a blanket ban on gambling product advertisements.
Easing the Betting Line
The UK Gambling Commission has taken steps to curb gambling ads, with new rules on bonuses and promotions set to take effect at the end of 2025. However, the data used in this analysis is primarily based on UK opinions. Worldwide, opposition to gambling ads is a clear trend.
Lessons from the Dutch Experience
In the Netherlands, where gambling advertising policy is extremely strict, Dutch Minister for Legal Protection, responsible for overseeing gambling, Teun Struycken, has discussed the possibility of introducing tougher advertising rules.
Operators in the Netherlands may not use "role models" (popular personalities and sportspeople) in their ads or target individuals under 24 years old. Struycken is considering a "clearer advertising ban," with some exceptions, aiming to protect consumers while making it difficult to skirt the advertising rules.
Struycken also aims to give the Netherlands Gambling Authority more power to act when it believes the market's rules have been violated. Despite these changes, the regulator remains cautious about introducing a blanket ban on gambling ads that might favor the black market.
Do Gambling Ads Harm Public Wellbeing?
Although opposition to gambling advertisements is widespread, it's essential to clarify if these ads genuinely harm the public. A study by Bouguettaya, Lynott, Carter, Zerhouni, Meyer, et al., suggests a positive association between exposure to gambling advertising and gambling-related attitudes, intentions, and behaviors.
However, the study does not establish a definitive causal relationship, and it underscores the need for a more unified and scientific approach to understanding the impact of gambling advertising.
Tightening the Noose on Gambling
Without a doubt, regulators are becoming more determined in their efforts against the gambling sector. Expect changes like restricting sports partnerships and limiting companies' abilities to use "role models" or target specific age groups.
Countries like Spain and Belgium have already introduced such restrictions, while Italy may soon lift its betting sponsorship ban. Yet, questions on the effectiveness of these measures and the research needed to address gambling-related harm remain open.
The Road Ahead - Progress, Though Slow
Although the status quo is far from satisfactory, and some may accuse regulators of complacency, we're now closer to understanding the impact of gambling ads on vulnerable individuals. Unfortunately, a one-size-fits-all solution isn't on the horizon. Yet, the fact that we can now openly acknowledge the issue and call for directed research represents a significant step forward. So buckle up, folks, the ride to regulating gambling ads is about to get real.
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- The Dutch Gambling Authority in the Netherlands has set strict advertising rules for casino-and-gambling activities, while Italy has completely prohibited gambling advertisements.
- Stricter gambling advertisement rules are being considered in the Netherlands, with a potential ban on using "role models" and targeting individuals under 24 years old.
- In the Netherlands, Dutch Minister for Legal Protection, Teun Struycken, aims to protect consumers by giving the Netherlands Gambling Authority more power to enforce advertising rules, but is cautious about introducing a blanket ban on gambling ads due to concerns about the black market.
- Research by the Royal Society for Public Health shows that the majority of adults and young people in the UK support a blanket ban on gambling product advertisements.
