Is online gambling a challenge for regulation?

Tuesday's panel discussion addressed gaming regulation across Europe. The panelists were Mr Jean-Francois Vilotte, ARJEL President France; Mr Jean-Marc Rapp, Member of the Swiss Lottery and Betting Board; Mr Tjeerd Veenstra EL Vice-President; and Mr Guido Berdardis, Director, Services, DG Internal Market and Services, European Commission. The moderator of the panel was Mr Philippe Vlaemminck, EL Legal Advisor.

It can be considered that online gambling has posed a special challenge to regulation in Europe. Gambling can be seen as a particular activity which requires a legal framework close to consumers and the socio-economic and cultural environment where it occurs. However, many of us share the thought that the more extensive and important risks that are inherent to online gambling require a coordinated approach. Each action shall be made in compliance with the rules of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU.