In a recent address at the Gaming in Holland conference, the Chairman of the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), René Jansen, highlighted critical concerns surrounding responsible gaming practices in the Netherlands. His remarks emphasize a proactive approach to player protection by both operators and regulatory authorities.
Duty of Care and Player Protection
The KSA Chairman emphasized the paramount importance of fulfilling the duty of care towards players. Unlike some other jurisdictions with strict regulatory frameworks, the Netherlands places greater emphasis on self-regulation by customers. Players are entrusted with setting their own limits for deposits and losses, but this does not absolve operators of their responsibility.
Operators’ Responsibilities
Operators are urged to take a proactive stance in identifying and addressing potentially harmful gambling behavior among their customers. This involves creating comprehensive risk profiles for players and intervening promptly when signs of problem gambling emerge. Jansen’s comments underscore that operators should view these measures as essential safeguards rather than mere administrative tasks.
Government Intervention
The KSA Chairman issued a stern warning that government intervention could be imminent if operators fail to uphold their duty of care adequately. This statement reflects a growing concern that industry self-regulation may not be sufficient to curb problem gambling effectively. The prospect of increased regulatory oversight underscores the need for proactive measures within the iGaming sector.
Supervisory Focus
In response to reported violations, the KSA has announced an intensification of supervision, shifting from policy examination to implementation scrutiny. This shift signals a more hands-on approach by regulatory authorities, aiming to ensure that operators’ policies translate into tangible actions for player protection.
Enforcement Measures
Jansen made it clear that the KSA will not hesitate to intervene swiftly upon detecting non-compliance with responsible gaming obligations. Recent investigations into self-exclusion violations at slot machine arcades highlight the regulatory agency’s commitment to enforcing stringent standards within the industry.