In a bid to tackle gambling addiction head-on, the Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has earmarked nearly €2 million to fund a new national initiative aimed at early detection of gambling harm. This significant investment underscores the Netherlands’ commitment to addressing a growing public health issue and is set to be financed by a levy on licensed gambling operators.
Modeled after the successful Early Detection of Alcohol Problems Partnership (SVA), established in 2019, the Early Detection of Gambling Harm Partnership (SVSG) seeks to proactively identify and mitigate gambling-related harm. The SVA’s effectiveness in tackling alcohol issues has inspired this new venture, which will harness a collaborative approach among various stakeholders.
The partnership comprises notable organizations like the Trimbos Institute, the Dutch Association of Addiction Specialists (VKN), the Municipal Health Service (GGD GHOR Netherlands), and the Dutch Debt Assistance Route (NSR). These groups are already extensively involved in addiction treatment, municipal services, and support networks. The funding aims to integrate their efforts towards building a more cohesive and organized strategy against gambling harm.
The initiative is set to roll out pilot programs by early 2026 in five municipalities. Local core teams will work alongside regional Attention Officers from VKN and project leaders from NSR to detect and address gambling problems promptly. This phase will also involve evaluating and enhancing existing training materials and intervention techniques. The goal is to empower professionals with the skills necessary to recognize warning signs and guide individuals towards appropriate help.
An online platform is also in the works to facilitate nationwide knowledge sharing and experience exchange among professionals. By 2027, this successful approach is expected to expand to at least fifteen municipalities, significantly broadening its reach.
The funding for this ambitious project comes from the Addiction Prevention Fund, sustained by contributions from regulated gambling entities. This fund reflects a broader trend across Europe, where governments are increasingly holding gambling companies accountable for the social costs of their operations.
The KSA estimates that approximately 209,000 people in the Netherlands are at high risk of gambling addiction, yet a minimal fraction seeks professional treatment. This initiative aims to reverse that trend, providing timely intervention to minimize the harm gambling can inflict on individuals and their families.
Gambling issues often go unaddressed until they manifest as severe financial distress, mental health challenges, and other detrimental effects. Shame, stigma, and lack of awareness about where to find support deter many from seeking help. By intervening earlier, this program hopes to curb the progression of gambling harm and improve recovery chances.
KSA Chairman Michel Groothuizen emphasized the importance of this coordinated effort: “For years, many organizations have independently worked to reduce gambling harm. This partnership brings together expertise from healthcare, debt counseling, and local communities, making help more accessible and timely. It’s an essential step toward enhanced consumer protection.”
The timing of this announcement is noteworthy, coinciding with KSA’s recent €4 million fine against Optdeck Service Limited, operator of Unibet, for failing to uphold its duty of care. Additionally, the regulator’s 2025 market scan revealed that the Dutch gambling market’s gross revenue held steady at €4.3 billion in 2024, indicating a stable yet vigilant regulatory environment.
In a broader context, the Netherlands’ initiative reflects a global trend where countries are increasingly recognizing the need for robust frameworks to manage gambling-related harms. Similar measures have been adopted in jurisdictions like the UK and Australia, where gambling addiction is also a pressing concern.
However, the success of the Dutch initiative is not guaranteed. Challenges such as resistance from gambling operators, potential funding shortfalls, and the complexity of coordinating among diverse stakeholders could impede progress. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding addiction may still deter individuals from accessing available resources.
Despite these risks, the Dutch initiative represents a proactive approach to a significant public health issue. By fostering collaboration among healthcare, social services, and local government, the Netherlands aims to create a comprehensive safety net for those affected by gambling.
As the world grapples with the challenges of gambling addiction, the Netherlands’ new initiative could serve as a model for other countries seeking to balance economic benefits from the gambling industry with the need to protect vulnerable individuals from its harms. Such efforts are vital to fostering a more responsible and sustainable gaming environment globally.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
