The Dutch Minister of Justice, Frank Weerwind, expressed disapproval of the Belgian government’s decision to prohibit most types of wagering promotions, asserting that the Netherlands does not require similar actions.
In response to an inquiry from Member of Parliament Evert Jan Slootweg, Weerwind rejected the comparison of gambling to a public health concern instead of a potentially risky pastime.
“I don’t fully concur with Minister Van Quickenborne. We understand that each cigarette is detrimental to health. Gambling is a form of entertainment for numerous individuals and does not present a problem for the majority.”
The Belgian government put forward a comprehensive prohibition on gambling advertising, excluding lotteries, on May 10th. The new rules will take effect at the end of the year.
Weerwind’s comments followed Belgian Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborne’s announcement of the ban, stating that “gambling is the new smoking, and everyone agrees that a world without tobacco advertising is preferable.”
Recognizing the possible hazards associated with wagering, the official highlighted that the resolution should involve stricter oversight and a more secure legal gambling setting, rather than an outright prohibition: “Wagering does present risks, so safeguarding participants is paramount. This can be accomplished through licensed operators who are obligated to comply with stringent regulations.”
Wilvind did not completely dismiss the necessity for advertising reform; he mentioned some actions the government has already undertaken: “Starting on June 30, 2022, it will no longer be permissible to utilize character models to promote risky random games. Moreover, a non-targeted advertising ban for risky random games is being implemented, as declared in letters to Parliament on March 17 and April 21, 2022.”
The official also refuted the idea that a rise in monthly gaming time subsequent to the legalization of online gambling is inherently a concerning trend.
“I place the increase in time spent on licensed operator websites within the context of gambling policy. Increasing the frequency with which individuals engage in random games is not the objective, nor is maintaining this level.”
He continued: “The objective of random game policy is to ensure individuals are as safe as possible while participating. In achieving this objective, we must be cognizant of the risk of addiction and prevent susceptible groups, such as young people, from being enticed into random games.”
Its far more secure to purchase goods and services from legitimate enterprises rather than illicit ones, particularly when safeguarding the interests of susceptible individuals.
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