### Strategic Partnerships to Tackle Gambling Risks
On May 22, the Greek (Hellenic) Gaming Commission (EEEP) embarked on a new initiative to mitigate problems related to gambling by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Organization for Quality Assurance in Health. This collaboration is designed to aid in the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction. Through this partnership, a comprehensive framework will be established focusing on raising public awareness, pinpointing gambling risk points, and offering support to at-risk individuals. This agreement also involves training professionals to provide psychological support and rehabilitation services to those struggling with gambling addiction. The memorandum is set for a duration of three years, with a joint Coordinating Committee responsible for overseeing its operations.
A week later, on May 29, the EEEP formed another alliance by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Greek Center for Cinema, Audiovisual Media, and Creation (EKKOMED, also known as Creative Greece). The purpose of this partnership is to endorse and augment the Greek digital gaming industry, encouraging innovation and ensuring the sustainability of the digital ecosystem. This collaboration also focuses on safeguarding society and its vulnerable members from behaviors that may lead to problem gambling. It aims to ensure that game development adheres to national and European standards, establishing the Greek sector as a key regional player. The partners have announced plans to draft an annual operational plan that will detail specific actions, timelines, and responsibilities.
### Greek Gaming Commission to Establish a Gambling Observatory
These proactive partnerships follow closely on the heels of the EEEP’s announcement last month, outlining plans to form a Gambling Observatory after a feasibility study and consultation with expert scientists. This observatory will leverage advanced technologies such as Big Data Analytics, AI, and Blockchain to track gambling trends, support research initiatives, and influence public policy. A primary objective of the Observatory is to safeguard vulnerable groups, address gambling addiction, and enhance the overall transparency and sustainability of the legal Greek gambling market. The EEEP emphasizes that effective data management will be vital for ensuring regulatory compliance, promoting responsible gambling, conducting market analysis, and preventing fraud.
### EPIPSY Study Shows Signs of Concern
Amid these comprehensive measures to tackle gambling-related issues, recent survey data has revealed concerning trends. A study conducted by Greece’s Mental Health Research Institute (EPIPSY) found that in 2024, 36% of first-year high school students in Greece had gambled for money, a figure 13% higher than the average across 36 European countries. The survey also indicated that 7% of Greek teenagers exhibited signs of problem gambling. The study pointed out worsening unhealthy habits among the nation’s youth, with 13% of 16-year-olds reporting having tried an illegal drug at least once and 92% claiming easy access to alcohol. Furthermore, there has been a notable increase in tobacco use, especially in e-cigarettes and vapes, rising from 43% in 2019 to 54% in 2024.
### Growing Focus on Youth Gambling Across Europe
The EEEP’s efforts are part of a broader movement across Europe to tackle the escalating exposure of adolescents to gambling. Earlier this year, the Council of Europe’s Pompidou Group initiated a project aimed at addressing the surge in online gambling and the associated risks among young people, focusing on policy enhancement and heightened awareness. The council has expressed concerns that online gambling products are highly addictive and can significantly impact mental health and development. Meanwhile, in Spain, the government is working on implementing stricter ID check rules in the regulated online and land-based gambling sectors to ensure that no one under 18 can access gambling facilities.