BAGO Responds to changes of Belgian gambling law
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5 Sep 2024 •
Reading time: 2 minutes The BAGO – Belgian Association of Gaming Operators has responded to the introduction of the far-reaching changes to the Van Hecke law. This includes a change in the age limit for gambling. There is also a fundamental ban on advertising for games of chance. The existing advertising ban is being further tightened. And no more bonuses and free rounds may be issued.
On 1 September, an amendment to the Van Hecke law came into effect in Belgium. After it was previously submitted as a bill. BAGO has responded positively to this new legislation. But it also warns of the possible consequences of illegal gambling practices.
Amendment to the Van Hecke law comes into effect
Participation in games of chance, both online and physically, for anyone under the age of 21 is prohibited. This applies to all forms of gambling, including betting and slot machines. With the exception of the National Lottery. Young people who still try to gamble run the risk of having to pay back their stakes if the provider proves to be negligent. And has not checked the age. This is a measure that is intended as an additional deterrent.
BAGO has always been an advocate for raising the age limit to protect young players from potential gambling addiction and other harmful effects of gambling.
Protection of young players
This measure is in line with BAGO’s years of efforts to protect vulnerable young people. Young players are at greater risk of gambling addiction and therefore raising the age limit is a crucial step in the right direction.
However, BAGO warns that raising the age limit may not be sufficient to fully address the problem. There remains a significant risk that players under the age of 21 will resort to illegal gambling providers. These providers operate outside the law and do not offer any form of player protection. This puts players at great risk.
What is the Impact of the new legislation?
Although the new legislation is an important step in protecting young people, BAGO calls for looking beyond just raising the age limit. For example, a thorough evaluation of the effectiveness of the current measures taken must take place. This is to determine whether they are successful in directing players to the regulated, safe gambling circuit, instead of the illegal market.