In recent discussions at the 20th Symposium on Gambling held at the University of Hohenheim, the German gambling authority, Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), emphasized the critical importance of ongoing research and robust frameworks for understanding gambling behaviors. The symposium highlighted key initiatives undertaken by the GGL to support evidence-based regulation within Germany’s gaming industry.
Investing in Knowledge: GGL’s Research Efforts
At the symposium, GGL disclosed their current research endeavors, which were commissioned at an estimated cost of €1.39 million ($1.48 million). This investment underscores their commitment to informed decision-making through empirical evidence. Ronald Benter, a Board Member of GGL, emphasized the agency’s approach to research, employing independent experts to ensure rigorous scientific methodology across various pertinent topics.
Benter noted, “Scientific findings serve as the foundation for informed policy and societal debates. Our role as a regulatory authority necessitates the promotion and initiation of gambling-related research to inform our decisions with solid facts and figures.”
Despite its relatively short existence, the GGL has made significant strides in advancing gambling research, aligning with its mission to deliver evidence-driven regulations in Germany.
Addressing the Black Market: A Key Challenge
One crucial aspect discussed was the impact of the black market on gambling activities, a challenge faced across Europe where certain gaming sectors operate outside regulatory oversight. Notably, online casinos in France have grappled with unregulated platforms. The GGL aims to investigate this issue following the implementation of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling in 2021, assessing how legal gaming channels have absorbed redirected players.
Advocating Collaboration and Dialogue
During the symposium’s concluding panel, Benter stressed the necessity of collaboration and open communication in advancing gambling studies. He remarked, “We value diverse viewpoints and interests as part of our decision-making process.”
This stance underscores GGL’s commitment to inclusive research methodologies, engaging stakeholders from various sectors to ensure a comprehensive understanding of gambling dynamics.
European Gambling Authorities in Focus
Beyond Germany, other European gambling authorities have made significant announcements this week. Denmark’s Spillemyndigheden released its 2023 gambling data, indicating a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of DKK 10.3 billion (approximately US$1.48 billion).
Meanwhile, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) in the Netherlands made headlines by imposing penalties and binding instructions on entities like Casbit Group and DigitalOcean for breaches related to the promotion of illegal gaming activities.
The symposium shed light on the multifaceted efforts of the GGL and other European authorities in tackling complex issues surrounding gambling regulation and research. By prioritizing evidence-based approaches and fostering collaborative partnerships, these agencies aim to navigate evolving landscapes within the gaming industry, ensuring responsible and informed oversight.