Dutch MPs Propose Banning iGaming amid Concerning Harm Rates

Ever since legalizing online gambling in 2021, the Netherlands has cemented itself as one of the bigger markets in Europe. However, amid concerning gambling harm figures and other side effects, some lawmakers are wondering whether the legalization had been a good idea after all.

New Measure Could End iGaming in the Netherlands

Two members of the Dutch parliament, namely Derk Boswijk and Diederik van Dijk, have launched Gambled and Lost, a new motion that could potentially put a stop to legal online gaming in the country. It encompasses six proposals that would amend the current laws or even end online gambling for good.

The two parliament members believe that the Remote Gambling Act (Koa) has had adverse effects and has ultimately led to a spike in gambling-related health problems, such as addiction. Younger people in particular have proven to be very vulnerable to online games of chance because of their tendency to engage with online content on a regular basis.

The MPs further argued that the Koa ended up normalizing gambling and the exploitation of younger people for profit. To make matters worse gambling addiction has been linked with suicide, further prompting lawmakers to act.

While Boswijk and van Dijk admitted that repealing the iGaming legalization will not be an easy task and will not be achieved overnight, they emphasized their intention to enforce a ban. If such a ban has been approved by lawmakers, it would be fairly easy to implement, the MPs believe.

The MPs Also Proposed a Ban on Ads

Not all measures outlined in Boswijk and van Dijk’s motion envision a complete crackdown on gambling. Amid the harsher solutions, the two have also proposed other measures, such as a ban on online gambling ads. While the Netherlands prohibited untargeted ads, some vulnerable players are still being affected by targeted marketing.

Additionally, the MPs suggested that the government should be proactive in enforcing its gambling rules and protecting players from harm.

The two MPs call for a ban on iGaming or stricter online gambling regulations comes amid a concerning increase in problem gambling among younger players. The KSA just published a report that suggested that the number of younger players engaging in gambling is still on the rise. While they tend to lose less money than older players, the participation figures are still disconcerting.