Dutch Lawmakers Propose Ban on Online Gambling Amid Rising Concerns
Since the legalization of online gambling in 2021, the Netherlands has become one of Europe’s prominent markets in the iGaming sector. However, growing concerns about gambling-related harm and addiction have led some lawmakers to question whether the decision to legalize online gambling was the right one.
Proposal to End iGaming in the Netherlands
Two Dutch parliament members, Derk Boswijk and Diederik van Dijk, have introduced a motion titled “Gambled and Lost,” which aims to amend or even repeal the country’s current online gambling laws.
The motion includes six proposals, one of which could lead to an outright ban on legal online gambling.
According to Boswijk and van Dijk, the Remote Gambling Act (Koa), which legalized online gambling, has contributed to an increase in gambling-related health problems, particularly among younger players who are more susceptible to online games of chance.
The MPs argue that the legalization of online gambling has normalized the activity and led to the exploitation of vulnerable groups, especially young people, for profit.
They also pointed to a disturbing link between gambling addiction and suicide as a key reason for their proposal to end online gambling in the country.
While acknowledging that repealing the iGaming legalization would be a complex process, the two lawmakers expressed their determination to pursue this goal.
If the motion to ban online gambling is approved by lawmakers, the MPs believe implementation could happen quickly.
Push for Stricter Regulations and Ad Bans
In addition to calling for a ban on online gambling, Boswijk and van Dijk have proposed other measures aimed at curbing gambling harm.
One significant proposal is a complete ban on online gambling advertisements.
Although the Netherlands has already banned untargeted ads, the MPs noted that vulnerable players are still exposed to targeted marketing campaigns.
They believe a more comprehensive ban is necessary to protect at-risk individuals.
Moreover, the MPs urged the government to take a more active role in enforcing gambling regulations and safeguarding players from harm.
This call for stricter oversight comes amid a rise in problem gambling among younger people, which has been highlighted by the Dutch gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA).
Concerns About Gambling Among Younger Players
A recent report from the KSA revealed that the number of younger players engaging in online gambling continues to grow.
Although these younger players tend to lose less money than older gamblers, their increasing participation has raised concerns.
Lawmakers like Boswijk and van Dijk believe that stronger regulations or even a ban on iGaming could help address these issues and reduce the risks of addiction.