Outgoing KSA chairman René Jansen: ‘biggest challenges during term of office’

René Jansen, who will step down as chairman of the Gaming Authority on July 1, 2024, looks back on a six-year period in which he has experienced many developments. 

His term of office coincided with the opening of the Dutch online gaming market on October 1, 2021. A period that brought many challenges. An enormous amount of work was done before the opening under high time pressure exacerbated by the challenges of the corona pandemic.

Regulation and public response

Jansen speaks about the intensive period preceding the market opening in an interview with Casinonieuws, the implementation of the Cruks system and the control database that were crucial for regulating the market. He acknowledges that despite achieving a 90% channelization rate, which keeps many gamblers within a regulated environment, there is still room for improvement due to ongoing challenges and public unrest, particularly excessive gambling behavior and the amount of gambling advertising that has caused a stir.

Critical reflection and future improvements

Jansen is critical of the current state of regulation and admits that he is not fully satisfied, given the ongoing problems and the need to tighten policies. He points to specific improvements in the duty of care for online providers and emphasizes the continued need for adjustment and strict enforcement to keep the gambling market safe and attractive.

Comparison with other sectors and personal vision

With experience in other supervisory positions, such as at the Dutch Healthcare Authority, Jansen describes gambling as one of the most controversial sectors he has overseen. He finds this sector particularly interesting because of the complex challenges and public opinions it entails.

Outlook

As his retirement approaches, Jansen is still deeply involved in the work and its daily challenges. His approach and warnings, although not always enthusiastically received, have sought to strengthen the regulation and supervision of gambling in the Netherlands. He continues to emphasize that the balance between regulation and keeping the gambling market attractive is essential for the well-being of gamblers and the integrity of the sector.