EGBA urges EU to adopt standard on gambling harm signs

EU standardisation bodies are being urged to endorse a new set of markers designed to identify gambling related harm.

The call is being led by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), which is encouraging national delegates to approve a proposal from the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) ahead of the 25 September deadline.

If the initiative is approved, it would establish the first Europe wide standard for recognizing harmful gambling behaviours. The framework would outline behavioural indicators, such as changes in playing speed, time spent or session length that could highlight risky or problematic activity.

According to the Brussels based trade association, the standard would address a major gap in the current system, where operators use harm detection tools without a consistent definition across markets. By introducing an evidence based benchmark, EGBA believes the measure would allow earlier intervention, enhance player protection and ensure more uniform practices across the EU.

“This vote is a milestone for safer gambling in Europe,” stated EGBA Secretary General Maarten Haijer. “This initiative is an example of the collaboration we need. Bringing regulators, researchers and industry together to create solutions for the common good. We urge national delegates to approve this important standard, which will help deepen understanding of gambling related risks and strengthen harm prevention efforts across Europe.”

The proposal has already received backing from the Gambling Regulators European Forum (GREF). Since being tabled by EGBA in 2022, its development has included input from academics, regulators, industry stakeholders and harm prevention experts.

If adopted, the voluntary framework is expected to be published by early 2026, with national regulators retaining the choice of whether to integrate it into domestic policies.

EGBA emphasised that the project supports its broader objective of harmonising gambling regulations across the EU, safeguarding consumers while bolstering the industry’s ability to combat illegal operators.