The Greek National Bioethics and Technoethics Committee has issued recommendations urging authorities to adopt stronger protective measures to reduce minors' exposure to gambling. The committee noted that the rapid growth of online betting and gambling apps has significantly increased adolescents' familiarity with gambling. Despite laws prohibiting minors from using gambling services, digital platforms and extensive marketing make these activities more visible and accessible to the youth. In plain terms, while the law prohibits it, whether it can prevent it is another matter. Now, we need to tighten the fence from three sources: advertising, identity, and payment.
Advertising Control: Limit exposure during prime time, promote industry self-regulation
The committee recommends limiting the visibility of gambling advertisements in media channels, especially during times when adolescents may be watching. Regulations on betting advertisements on broadcast and television are to be enforced, even by licensed operators. The committee believes that limiting prime time advertisements is necessary for public health reasons. The General Secretariat for Communication and Media will be responsible for establishing rules, with the National Broadcasting and Television Commission overseeing implementation. The gambling industry is also encouraged to establish a self-regulation framework through advertising and communication codes, coordinated by the Greek Gambling Commission. Online advertisements will also face additional regulation, with specific conditions set for the frequency and content of related digital marketing activities.
Identity and Payment: Integrate government digital identity, restrict anonymous prepaid cards
The committee suggests using Greece's Gov Wallet infrastructure as part of identity verification, securely storing citizens' identity data to provide a reliable method of user verification and prevent minors from creating gambling accounts. The Ministry of Digital Governance and the Gambling Commission will be responsible for implementing digital verification measures. Additionally, it recommends restricting payment methods commonly used by minors, particularly anonymous prepaid debit cards, with the Ministry of Finance studying adjustments to payment system regulations.
School Prevention: Launch awareness and education campaigns
The committee also recommends initiating preventive initiatives in schools, encouraging the Ministry of Education to launch awareness campaigns to inform adolescents about the risks of gambling addiction. These plans will complement the cooperation already planned between the Gambling Commission and the National Organization for the Prevention and Treatment of Addiction. Officials believe that early education and prevention are key strategies, especially against the backdrop of the continuous expansion of digital gambling platforms. Meanwhile, Greece is strengthening its stance against the illegal gambling market, with proposed legislation including harsher penalties for unlicensed operators (both online and offline). Interested in the latest developments in European gambling regulation? PASA official website keeps track.
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