France has taken a significant step forward in promoting responsible gambling with a new cooperation between the national gaming regulator, Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), and the National Union of Family Associations (UNAF). The agreement follows up on the regulator’s ongoing efforts to combat problem gambling and prevent underage participation in gaming activities.
UNAF Enjoys Unprecedented Reach
This collaboration is committed to supporting vulnerable groups and providing resources to professionals in close contact with such communities. One of the key areas of intervention will be creating tools and materials for spreading awareness regarding the dangers of pathological gambling, as well as gambling among minors. This strategy should enhance existing gambling harm prevention measures and hopefully deliver lasting results.
This initiative aligns with ANJ’s strategic focus for 2024-2026. The new partnership will focus on several key areas such as studies, publication of awareness-raising materials, the development of tools to support families and professionals responsible for supporting users in the prevention of underage gambling and the treatment of gambling addiction, and the design of and intervention in training programs for professionals or volunteers.
ANJ and UNAF’s collaborative effort will complement existing community-focused systems. UNAF oversees a network of nearly 6,000 family associations across France. UNAF also provides budget management and financial education consultations, which can also help prevent problem gambling. Through its network of Budget Advice Points, the organization offers a vital service to at-risk communities.
The Collaboration Is Ready to Tackle Emerging Challenges
UNAF has long been concerned about the impact of gambling on vulnerable groups, particularly minors and those facing financial trouble. Growing access to online and physical gambling increasingly threatens family budgets and individual well-being. This collaboration hopes to address those risks head-on by delivering what families and professionals need to prevent and reduce gambling harm.
This milestone partnership coincides with rapid growth in the French gambling sector. Despite the surge in GGR, the number of active users appears to be decreasing, signaling that the French gambling industry may be leveling off. The ANJ’s strategic focus on safe gambling practices can help tackle emerging challenges, including competition constraints and market saturation.
The ANJ-UNAF partnership should deliver significant advantages to consumers, helping them enjoy gambling without suffering the associated risks. Public awareness, professional training, and preventive measures should cement France’s position as one of the world’s leading safe gambling jurisdictions. With the country’s gambling industry continuing to grow, this timely intervention will help ensure that the sector remains profitable and socially responsible.
