Jérôme Gallot has been named as the consumer ombudsman for French gambling, a role appointed by Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, who presides over l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), the French gambling regulatory body.
The key aim of this appointment is to ensure robust oversight in the mediation of consumer-related issues within France’s gambling industry.
Since 1985, Gallot has been associated with the Court of Auditors, though much of his career has been spent outside the institution, particularly within the Ministry of Economy and Finance. From 1997 to 2003, he held the position of Director-General at the Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF).
The ANJ’s mediation system helps resolve conflicts between players and gaming operators, including those with exclusive rights like Française des Jeux and PMU. Initially, consumers must attempt to settle complaints directly with operators by submitting a written grievance. If the operator does not respond within 20 days or if the response is unsatisfactory, players may escalate their issue to the mediator.
In 2023, Médiateur received 1,523 requests for mediation, with 91% related to sports betting. However, 752 requests were found inadmissible, mainly because consumers had not initially submitted a written complaint to the operator (89%). About one-third of the admissible cases led to partial or complete resolutions for complainants.
Gallot, as the new mediator, is anticipated to use his wide-ranging knowledge in consumer and competition law to improve the ANJ’s dispute resolution processes. His appointment highlights the ANJ’s dedication to “safeguarding player rights and promoting fair practices within the gaming industry.”