Key Moments:
- National standardization bodies within CEN have approved a draft framework on gambling harm markers proposed by the EGBA.
- The measure establishes the first unified European standard for identifying risky gambling behaviors.
- CEN will finalize the framework before full publication, with regulators and operators able to adopt it voluntarily in early 2026.
Unified Approach to Player Protection Progresses
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) welcomed the recent positive vote on the draft European standard for gambling harm markers. EGBA initially proposed this framework to the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN). It aims to create the first EU-wide standard to flag risky gambling patterns.
Approval Achieved Through Europe-Wide Collaboration
The voting period ended on 25 September, with results announced in Brussels on 1 October. EGBA believes this new standard will benefit players throughout Europe. It will also create a consistent framework for harm prevention. Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of EGBA, stated: “The positive outcome of this vote is a real testament to the power of collaboration across our sector. When EGBA first proposed this initiative to CEN, we envisioned creating a commonly agreed standard that would benefit players across Europe. We’re delighted with the support the standard has received, and I want to personally thank all the stakeholders who participated in this process. The result shows what happens when we work together to strengthen player protection.”
Focus on Detecting Risky Gaming Behavior
The standard highlights behavioral markers such as changes in playing speed, frequency, or session length, which can signal risk. Vasiliki Panousi, Senior Manager of EU Affairs at EGBA, commented: “After years of driving this project, through its conception and development, seeing the overwhelming support it has received is incredibly rewarding. This will be the first commonly agreed European standard for identifying risky gambling behaviours, and it will offer an essential building block for effective harm prevention in Europe. The cooperation to develop the standard was extremely valuable, bringing together diverse expertise from across the continent.”
Contributions from Diverse Stakeholders
EGBA credited experts across the sector for the project’s success, including project leader Dr. Maris Catania and AFNOR, which acted as CEN’s Secretariat. The association thanked delegates from standardisation committees, academics, regulatory authorities, operators, and harm prevention specialists. They all contributed to the multi-year initiative. EGBA argues that standard rules are vital. Fragmented national approaches leave gaps in player protection. Leading up to the vote, EGBA encouraged delegates to support the measure, stating that “operators already deploy such tools but lack a common definition across markets.”
Next Steps and Timeline to Publication
With the draft standard approved, the framework now moves to CEN’s finalization stage, which involves translations and procedural checks. EGBA explained that this process can take several months. The standard is scheduled for publication in early 2026. Regulators and gambling companies will then be able to adopt the new guidelines on a voluntary basis.
Impacts for Europe’s Gambling Landscape
EGBA anticipates that this cross-border framework will allow for earlier intervention, increase consistency in player protection, and reinforce regulatory harmonization. The association ties this project to its efforts to bolster consumer safety and limit the influence of unlicensed providers within the EU market.
Upcoming Industry Event
SiGMA Central Europe is slated to take place at Fiera Roma from 03–06 November 2025, featuring 30,000 attendees, over 1,000 exhibitors, and more than 550 expert speakers. This event is positioned as a major gathering for innovators and leaders in the sector.
- Author
Daniel Williams
