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Summary:
- KSA Chief says EU regulators must collectively address key trends in online gambling
- He emphasized the need for constant cooperation among regulatory authorities for better regulation of iGaming
- Jansen will be succeeded as GREF Chair by France’s ANJ President
This year marks the end of Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) Chairman René Jansen’s tenure as Chair of the Gambling Regulators’ European Forum (GREF). As he vacates his post, he has emphasized the importance of consistent collaboration among regulatory authorities in Europe when it comes to iGaming.
KSA Chief Highlights Four Trends Regarding iGaming in EU
In his opening speech at the recently-concluded GREF annual conference in Bergen, Norway, Jansen highlighted four trends in Europe relating to online games of chance. The KSA head noted that these trends are common among European nations regardless of differences in online gaming legislation. Jansen once again placed the spotlight on this subject in his latest blog published on the KSA website.
The first trend relates to player protection and addiction prevention. Jansen said gaming regulators in Europe should continue to work on improving player safeguards, minimizing harm, and protecting players from addiction. A public health approach must be adopted in this area, Jansen added.
Another trend that the KSA chief pointed out is reducing the impact of gambling advertising and sponsorship. Regulatory authorities should take steps to curb the negative effects of advertising especially on minors and young adults and other vulnerable people, Jansen noted. The Netherlands is putting a particular focus on this area, with the country set to implement a ban on untargeted advertising from July 1.
The third trend is on strict enforcement, with Jansen highlighting the need for regulators to closely monitor not only the illegal services provided by unlicensed sites but also those being offered via popular online platforms such as Facebook. Authorities should strive to create a safe and secure gaming environment for players by getting rid of illegal gambling providers.
Jansen also drew attention to emerging technologies and their impact on the online gaming sphere, such as cryptos, NFTs, and AI technology.
Constant Dialogue Among Regulators Crucial in iGaming
As Jansen officially hands over the baton to his successor, Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin Falque-Pierrotin, the head of France’s unified gambling regulator, l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), he underscored the need for continuous dialogue among regulators. Jansen noted that online gambling transcends borders, which is why it is necessary for gambling authorities to work together and collaborate.
Jansen served for four years on the GREF board. He was appointed GREF Chair in 2021. He described his experience as fun, useful, and instructive, and wished the new GREF chair and the entire board incredible success.
