The Dutch National Rapporteur on Addictions (NRV) has submitted 22 opinions to the Ministry of Justice in a comprehensive report addressing the impact of gambling on public health in the Netherlands. These opinions encompass a wide range of recommendations aimed at addressing issues related to gambling limits, advertising practices, and addiction prevention policies.
Mandatory Play Limits for Casino Games:
One of the key recommendations put forth by Dr. Arnt FA Schellekens, the author of the report, is the introduction of mandatory play limits for casino games in the Netherlands. Drawing inspiration from the German model, Schellekens proposes that all 21 licensed online casinos in the country should implement a play limit system. These limits would serve as safeguards to protect customers. The proposal suggests that customisable limits, based on proof of affordability, could strike a balance between player protection and channelisation.
Review of High-Risk Games:
The NRV recommends that the Ministry of Justice conducts a review of “high-risk games” and considers restricting or even banning games in which players have minimal influence, such as fruit machines. This measure seeks to mitigate potential harm associated with games that offer limited player control over outcomes.
Advertising Restrictions:
The NRV emphasizes the need to limit advertising exposure to individuals actively seeking gambling information. It underscores the correlation between advertising exposure and increased gambling participation. The report advocates for providing customers with warnings about the health consequences of excessive gambling, similar to tobacco warnings. It’s worth noting that the Netherlands has already implemented a ban on non-targeted gambling advertising.
Operator Accountability for Gambling-Related Damages:
Another significant proposal from the NRV pertains to operator accountability. The report suggests that operators should be held responsible for gambling-related damages if they fail to conduct proper investigations and fulfill their duty of care. Drawing from Austrian legislation, which imposes a duty on licensees to actively investigate and assess affordability in cases of suspected excessive gambling behavior, this recommendation aims to incentivize operators to take their responsibilities seriously. Failure to investigate could result in operators being held liable for damages caused by excessive gambling.
Government Response and Future Reforms:
While the Legal Protection Minister, Franc Weerwind, has previously expressed reservations about imposing play limits in the Netherlands, the Ministry of Justice has indicated its willingness to revisit gambling legislation next year. This follows requests from the country’s National gambling regulator, the KSA, highlighting the evolving landscape of gambling regulation in the Netherlands.
The NRV’s report underscores the importance of addressing the health implications of gambling in the Netherlands. The recommendations put forth in the report aim to strike a balance between player protection, responsible advertising, and operator accountability. As the Dutch government considers these proposals, it reflects a broader global trend toward enhanced regulation and safeguards within the gambling industry to protect vulnerable individuals and promote responsible gambling practices.