The landscape of problem gambling across Europe is a complex tapestry, woven from diverse methodologies, measurements, and reporting systems. A recent pan-European study conducted by the City, University of London sheds light on this intricate web, revealing significant variations in how different countries monitor and report problem gambling prevalence.
Challenges in Monitoring Problem Gambling:
The study uncovered a stark reality: out of the 20 countries surveyed, only 12 conduct regular national surveys on problem gambling prevalence. Even among these 12, disparities abound. Variances in measurement tools, methodologies, and even the types of surveys used hinder meaningful cross-country comparisons. For instance, while seven countries rely on gambling prevalence surveys, three others utilize health surveys. Additionally, the use of different screening tools further complicates the picture, with only a handful of countries employing multiple tools within the same survey. Some nations even resort to estimating problem gambling prevalence based on the number of self-excluded players, highlighting the lack of standardized approaches.
Insights from EGBA:
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), emphasized the need for a cohesive strategy in addressing problem gambling. He stressed the commitment of EGBA members to fostering a safer gambling environment and underscored the importance of understanding problem gambling prevalence across Europe. Haijer highlighted the glaring disparities revealed by the study, signaling a pressing need for harmonization in monitoring and reporting practices.
The Call for a Unified Framework:
In light of these findings, the study advocates for the establishment of a common framework for monitoring and reporting problem gambling. Such a framework would facilitate clearer comparisons between countries and pave the way for evidence-based prevention policies. EGBA echoes this sentiment, expressing hope that the study will spark constructive dialogue among stakeholders to identify best practices and drive collective action.
Benefits of Standardization:
A shift towards standardized monitoring and reporting would yield several benefits for all stakeholders involved in the gambling sector. By harmonizing methodologies, policymakers, researchers, and industry players can obtain more accurate insights into problem gambling trends, enabling targeted interventions and resource allocation. Moreover, standardized data would enhance transparency and accountability within the industry, fostering trust among regulators, operators, and the public.
The study conducted by the City, University of London illuminates the fragmented landscape of problem gambling monitoring and reporting in Europe. By highlighting the disparities in methodologies and measurements, the study underscores the need for a unified framework to foster a comprehensive understanding of the issue’s pan-European prevalence. EGBA’s support for this initiative underscores the collective commitment to promoting safer gambling practices and addressing problem gambling effectively. As stakeholders engage in dialogue and collaboration, a more standardized approach to monitoring and reporting problem gambling will emerge, laying the foundation for evidence-based policies and interventions that prioritize the well-being of individuals across Europe.