Belgian gambling sector shows guts with own rules to protect players

The Belgian gambling sector is sounding the alarm. Not because it has to, but because it itself thinks it can do better. Back in 2023, major players joined forces. They went beyond what the law requires.

They made agreements to better protect people at risk. Not just in words, but with clear action. BAGO, the association of licensed gambling operators, took the lead.

Belgium ahead of Europe with own duty of care for players

In other European countries, regulators are pushing for stricter rules. But Belgium did not wait for that. Big gambling companies decided on a pact themselves: more care for the player.

They made a joint pledge. It is called the Duty of Care. This is not about nice talk. It is a concrete plan to help people who gamble too much.

The industry deliberately chooses to give extra protection to vulnerable players

The agreements go beyond what is mandatory. Companies actively look at who is at risk. They contact and offer help. This is done quickly and targeted.

They do not want to wait until things go wrong. The intention is clear: to prevent problems. They don’t want people to get help only when it’s too late.

Gaming1 calls it an honour to help build safe gaming

Gaming1 is one of the companies participating. They are proud of it. According to them, fun should always be balanced with safety. 

‘Player safety comes first,’ they say.

They call it Next Level Entertainment. That doesn’t mean more profit, but smarter and fairer play. Without exploiting or derailing people.

Illegal market has no chance if legal sector does well

A safe gambling environment also helps to avoid illegal websites. Players prefer to choose a place where they know things are well regulated.

The industry wants licensed operators to be the best choice. That will only succeed if players feel better there. Not just because of the offer, but because of genuine care.

The collective approach only works if everyone participates

The initiative is not a solo action. It is a joint promise by several companies. They want to show that working together pays off.

Together, they can achieve more. Not through competition, but through responsibility. And by keeping strong ties with the government.

Belgium shows gambling companies can also be social

Gambling and healthcare, it may seem strange. But these companies prove that it can be done. They consciously choose humanity over quick profits.

That makes a difference. Not just for the industry, but especially for people. For players who sometimes need just a little extra help.