WHO Demands Global Action on Gambling
The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for international action to address the growing public health and social problems caused by gambling. With the industry growing so fast the WHO says we need tough regulations and comprehensive interventions to reduce gambling harms.
In their latest report the WHO are calling on governments to implement population wide strategies, with a focus on banning gambling advertising, sponsorships and promotions. They say this is the first step in reducing gambling disorders and associated social harms.
The WHO also called for universal registration systems, binding loss limits and tighter controls on gambling products. These measures would stop harmful gambling and prevent exploitation of vulnerable populations.
Shocking Facts on Gambling Disorders
The report reveals the global impact of gambling disorders which affect 1.2% of the adult population. Beyond individual financial loss the WHO found broader social impacts including mental health issues, family violence and suicide.
The WHO also pointed out the industry’s reliance on high risk gamblers, saying that those who gamble harmfully contribute 60% of the sector’s revenue. “This reflects the industry’s dependence on its most vulnerable users,” the report stated.
Responsible Gambling Measures Fail
The WHO slammed current responsible gambling (RG) measures as inadequate and too reliant on individual responsibility. Voluntary measures like self-exclusion programs were deemed ineffective because of low participation rates and lack of enforcement.
Instead the WHO recommend mandatory systems, including universal pre-commitment mechanisms where gamblers have to set binding limits on losses and bets. They say prevention focused strategies are much more effective than voluntary measures.
Industry Influence and Policy Gaps
A big chunk of the report looked at industry influence on government policy and public health research. The WHO said the reliance on gambling tax revenue means governments are not incentivised to act.
“Perceived economic benefits of gambling markets may outweigh poorly understood health and societal impacts,” the report said, which adds that industry lobbying is blocking effective regulation.
The WHO also raised concerns about industry funding of research which can compromise findings and policy recommendations. They want measures to limit industry influence in these areas so public health comes first.
Global Expert Network
To have consistent gambling regulation and address the gaps worldwide the WHO will establish a global network of experts. This will focus on developing diagnostic tools for diverse populations, especially outside of North America and sharing best practices in regulatory frameworks.
They will also focus on low and middle income countries where gambling markets are growing fast. This will include reducing stigma, stopping advertising and promotions and upstream prevention to reduce harm.
