Gambling supervision in Europe, countries join forces for better regulation

The gambling regulators of Austria, France, Germany, Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom met in Vienna on June 11 and 12 to discuss two key topics. The themes discussed included scratch cards and the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) regarding gambling.

Cooperation against legal challenges

The CJEU has previously ruled that Member States may restrict the freedom to provide services and establishment for gambling companies, as long as these restrictions are proportionate and aimed at player protection. However, gaming regulators have noted an increase in procedures that call these principles into question.

To ensure that the CJEU’s jurisprudence continues to protect EU players, authorities are seeking cooperation or even intervention in such proceedings. This may mean that they take joint positions or even appear as a party in the proceedings.

Harmless fun or hidden risk?

The gambling regulators of Austria, France, Spain and the United Kingdom recognize the size of the scratch card market in their countries. Although scratch cards are often seen as harmless fun, sometimes even shared between parents and children, they are indeed games of chance with inherent risks.

Protection of players, especially minors

In order to better protect players and in particular minors who are not allowed to come into contact with gambling, gambling regulators undertake to work together on the effective implementation of their national regulations. This could mean introducing stricter rules for the marketing and sale of scratch cards. Or that restrictions are placed on the prizes that can be won.

Collaboration for a safe gambling market

The meeting in Vienna highlights the importance of international cooperation between gaming regulators. By working together, the authorities can act more effectively against illegal practices, better protect players and guarantee the integrity of the gaming market.