Pope Francis Calls for Stronger Government Measures Against Online Gambling
Pope Francis in his new book “Hope Never Disappoints” has calls governments to take decisive action against the growing threat of online gambling addiction. Highlighting the risks to young people, he criticized the normalization of betting and called for stricter regulations to safeguard society.
Gambling Addiction: A Threat to Youth and Society
Pope Francis has raised concerns about the increasing accessibility of online gambling, particularly its appeal to younger audiences. He described the phenomenon as offering “a false illusion of individual salvation amid increasingly widespread crises.” With smartphones providing instant access to gambling platforms, he warned that this convenience creates a dangerous environment for young people, turning their devices into “mobile casinos.”
Governments Must Act Responsibly
The Pope emphasized the responsibility of governments to protect their citizens, particularly the youth, from the harms of gambling addiction. He insisted that authorities “cannot be complicit in inciting gambling addiction” which he believes leads to severe emotional and financial harm. His remarks highlight a need for stricter regulation to mitigate the societal costs of unregulated online betting.
Francis also criticized the growing relationship between gambling platforms and sports sponsorships. He argued that these endorsements normalize betting, undermining the values of sportsmanship and a healthy society. By embedding gambling into everyday culture, such sponsorships blur ethical lines and contribute to the spread of addiction.
Legislative Responses in Argentina
The Pope’s statements align with ongoing legislative debates in Argentina, where lawmakers are discussing restrictions on online gambling. Proposed measures include tighter regulations on games of chance and a potential ban on gambling advertisements. The Catholic Church has actively supported these efforts, urging swift action through a public letter to the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Martín Menem. The Church has called for the bill’s inclusion in the legislative agenda or the convening of a special session to address the issue.
