On September 25, 2025, a significant milestone was reached in Europe’s journey toward harmonizing gambling regulations. The European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) has approved a draft framework aimed at identifying risky gambling behaviors, marking a step forward in creating a unified European standard for “harm markers.”
This initiative was initially proposed by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) in 2022. With CEN’s endorsement, the draft will undergo a formal completion process, including translation into multiple languages and administrative reviews, with its official release anticipated in early 2026. Although the adoption of this standard will be optional for regulators and operators, industry leaders predict it will become a widely used benchmark across various regions.
The framework’s primary goal is to assist operators and regulators in detecting early warning signs of problem gambling. These indicators include sudden increases in gambling time, unusual betting patterns, or attempts to recover significant losses. By establishing a common definition for these behaviors, the framework aims to reduce discrepancies between national markets and foster a more consistent approach to safeguarding players.
Maarten Haijer, Secretary General of EGBA, hailed the vote as a demonstration of the industry’s collaborative spirit. He emphasized that the proposal was designed to create a Europe-wide standard benefiting players and acknowledged the broad support it received from diverse stakeholders.
Vasiliki Panousi, EGBA’s Senior Manager of EU Affairs, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the significance of the benchmark as the first Europe-wide agreement on risky gambling indicators. This framework is the culmination of years of work involving experts from academia, regulatory bodies, the industry, and organizations dedicated to harm prevention. Dr. Maris Catania, an authority on responsible gambling, led the project, while AFNOR, the French standardization organization, coordinated the effort. The EGBA also acknowledged the contributions of numerous national committees and experts in shaping the final outcome.
Industry analysts suggest that the approval of this framework could be transformative for Europe’s gambling landscape. The continent currently experiences a fragmented market, with stringent regulations in some countries and a greater reliance on operators to manage risks in others. A unified framework could provide regulators with a consistent standard and equip operators with effective tools for proactive risk management.
While the adoption of the framework remains voluntary, the EGBA argues that the benefits of a consistent approach—enhanced customer protection and cross-border uniformity—will encourage widespread acceptance among operators. The association also contends that a set of shared rules could strengthen regulated markets and diminish the influence of unlicensed operators.
If widely adopted, this new system could signal a shift from reactive to proactive measures, significantly enhancing player protection in an evolving industry. As gambling continues to evolve, a common standard for identifying harmful behaviors could foster safer environments for players across Europe.
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.
