Bulgaria Faces Controversy Over Social Media Exemption in Gambling Ad Ban
Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency has clarified that the country’s new gambling advertising ban does not extend to social media platforms, a decision that has sparked controversy.
NRA’s Decision Sparks Debate on Gambling Ad Restrictions
The Bulgarian National Revenue Agency (NRA) has clarified that the recently implemented gambling advertising ban does not extend to social media platforms, a move that has generated widespread controversy.
While the original ban, introduced three months ago, targeted all media channels, the NRA now permits gambling advertisements through influencers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, raising questions about the effectiveness of the restrictions.
Social Media Excluded from Media Definition
The controversy stems from the NRA’s interpretation of what constitutes “media” under Bulgaria’s Broadcasting Act.
According to Rumen Spetsov, director of the NRA, social media platforms do not fall under the traditional definition of media, which applies to mass communication channels with wide reach.
As such, users following influencers on these platforms are seen as consenting to the content they view, thus exempting social networks from the ban on gambling advertisements.
Critics Concerned About Loopholes
This interpretation has drawn criticism from those concerned about the potential rise in gambling ads on social media, especially given the large number of young users on these platforms.
The original law aimed to curb the impact of gambling promotions, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children.
Critics argue that the NRA’s stance undermines the intent of the law and could lead to an increase in gambling-related harm.
Ambiguity in Enforcement
Spetsov has acknowledged that enforcement of the ban will be case-by-case, warning against attempts to circumvent the restrictions by redirecting audiences from traditional media to social media for gambling-related content.
However, the NRA’s position, which allows for gambling ads on platforms not defined as “media,” leaves room for interpretation and raises concerns about the future efficacy of Bulgaria’s advertising regulations.
