It is clear that, in the gaming sector, the transcendent issue of responsible gambling is not just a matter of regulatory compliance. Today, it represents a commitment inherent to the internal structure of each company, and to its action plan towards the whole betting scene, with measures to take care of players, employees, and stakeholders. We have had the opportunity to speak with international representatives from Europe, the UK and the United States on this subject. Readers can enjoy the result of these talks in the following compilation of the best of the year.
1) Arthur Paikowsky (ICRG). Focusing on prevention and sharing safer gambling practices. The President of the International Center for Responsible Gaming expressed his thoughts on how the interaction between consumers and companies can be improved regarding RG and how to mitigate risks and harms to vulnerable players. Besides, he explained the ways to identify problematic gamblers and to help them recover.
2) Jennifer Shatley (ROGA). Fostering enjoyable experiences for players, while upholding the long-term sustainability of the industry. The Executive Director at the Responsible Online Gaming Association collaborated with researchers, experts, and other organizations to promote evidence-based responsible gaming practices across the industry. In the article, Shatley detailed the goals on five key areas, and the mission of ROGA.
3) Kevin O’Neill (Responsible Gaming Foundation). Increasing awareness and support for responsible gaming. The General Manager of the Maltese organization talked about how the gambling sector as a whole can improve its measures regarding this topic. Besides, the executive enumerated the entity’s activities, explained how to detect and help a person with gambling disorders, and anticipated the Foundation’s plans, including to conduct a biannually study on Maltese and non-Maltese citizens’ gambling behaviors. He considers RG as a commitment to protecting players and fostering a sustainable gaming industry where the well-being of individuals takes precedence over profit.
4) Stephanie Diez-Morel (IGCCB). Educating and aiding in the certification of gambling counselors. An academic expert, this respected doctor is a Licensed Clinical Social Work, Master’s Certified Addiction Professional, and an Associate Professor and researcher at PennWest Edinboro University in Pennsylvania (United States). G&M News contacted her in her role of Vice President of the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board to learn more about this organization’s activities, and to share her analysis on the pending issues the gaming industry has about responsible gambling.
5) Pieter Remmers (G4). Ensuring the industry complies with the highest responsible gambling standards. The Board Member of the Global Gambling Guidance Group talked about how G4 is working with companies to help them develop responsible gambling programs. He also summarized four steps to combat problematic gambling and raised the current challenges on this subject.