Leadership Change at the German Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL)

Achievements During Götze’s Tenure

During Udo Götze’s one-year term as Chairman, the GGL faced several regulatory challenges while attempting to solidify its structure since its establishment on July 1, 2021. Over the past 18 months, the GGL has been responsible for regulating the cross-state gambling market in Germany.

Although the authority made strides in transforming the illegal gambling market into a more state-controlled legal market, this period was also marked by significant regulatory difficulties. New regulations introduced during Götze’s tenure have been criticized for stifling market competition, posing hurdles to the development of a competitive market landscape.

Götze remarked, “The GGL, in collaboration with the states, has created an excellent foundation for the successful regulation of this rapidly evolving digital market. All involved can be proud of these achievements.”

Focus on Player and Youth Protection

Incoming Chairman Reiner Moser emphasized the ongoing priorities: “Regulating online gambling is a demanding task, focusing on preventing gambling addiction and protecting players and youth. Immense challenges remain, including implementing court decisions on the use of enforcement tools like IP blocking and overseeing legal providers. I am confident that the GGL will successfully tackle these challenges with continued support from the states and the Administrative Board.”

The Administrative Board serves as the supervisory and steering committee of the GGL. It comprises the heads or state secretaries of the ministries responsible for gambling oversight in the 16 federal states. The chairmanship of the Administrative Board rotates annually on July 1, in alphabetical order of the states.