Maarten Haijer, the secretary general of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), has commented on the gambling industry’s image, revealing that it is not something his organization can fix. Others, however, believe that the industry should be proactive.
EGBA: Changing Public Opinion Is Not Easy
Speaking at the NEXT.io Responsible Gambling Symposium in Malta on November 11, Haijer addressed the industry’s somewhat controversial image. While many find gambling to be a great source of fun and excitement, just as many, if not more, are wary of the industry’s negative effects and associated addiction risks.
Gambling’s historic image as a “sin industry” doesn’t help either, despite the ongoing responsibility and sustainability efforts.
Haijer noted that his team is currently collaborating with regulators to improve the industry’s image among policymakers. However, this is sometimes very hard because of people’s existing preconceptions. The EGBA CEO noted that changing public opinion is something extremely difficult and not necessarily something the association can do.
Instead, the EGBA will focus on what it can achieve. This includes evidence-based discussions within the industry, as well as with governments.
While gambling does tend to have certain risks, Haijer suggested that some politicians have exploited this negative image to enforce regulations that suit their needs. The EGBA CEO reiterated his appeal for constructive dialogue that would lead to meaningful advancements.
In the meantime, Haijer suggested that the gambling industry has significant experience in dealing with information and setting up consumer protection measures, making it a great source of real data that could help the creation of balanced regulatory frameworks.
Critics Proposed a More Proactive Approach
Russell Mifsud, director of audit, tax and advisory services specialist at KPMG, also addressed the matter. He highlighted the importance of changing the industry’s image, despite Haijer’s claim that this might be an arduous task.
According to Mifsud, a vicious circle of regulation is pressuring the industry as growing pressures on operators lead to an increase in engagement with black market operators. Striking headlines, such as ones relating gambling addiction to suicides have further undermined the legal industry, causing illegal gambling to surge, Mifsud suggested.
The director was firm that over-regulation only benefits the black market, inadvertently causing more harm than good.
Instead of letting reactionary measures nourish the black market, Mifsud proposed a unified approach between industry stakeholders to boost the industry’s reputation. He believes that ESG principles can do a lot to benefit the industry and make it better accepted by consumers and lawmakers.
