Finland: Stop Gambling Harm Delays NOW!

Finland's leading health authority, the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), has issued a stern Finland Health Institute harm prevention warning, urging the government to accelerate the implementation of crucial measures aimed at mitigating gambling-related harm. The institute strongly criticizes proposed delays in new legislative reforms, emphasizing the immediate necessity for enhanced player protection. This call comes amidst ongoing discussions about transforming the country's gambling landscape, including the future of the state-owned monopoly, Veikkaus.

Urgent Call for Robust Harm Prevention Measures

The THL’s stance is clear: preventative actions are needed now, not deferred. The institute has outlined several key interventions that it believes are essential for safeguarding players. These recommendations are designed to be universally applicable across all forms of gambling.

• Mandatory Weekly Loss Limits: THL advocates for a strict maximum weekly loss limit of €500. This limit would apply to all gambling activities.
• Universal Mandatory Identification: All gambling transactions, regardless of the game or venue, should require mandatory identification. This allows for better tracking and intervention.
• Mandatory Breaks: Implement compulsory breaks during play sessions. This helps players manage their time and spending.
• Ban on VIP Programs: The institute calls for an outright prohibition of VIP programs. These programs often encourage increased spending among vulnerable individuals.

THL highlights that such measures have proven effective in other jurisdictions. Waiting to implement them risks exacerbating existing problems. The current monopoly system already contributes significantly to gambling harm, underscoring the urgency for change.

Criticism of Proposed Legislative Delays

A central point of contention for THL is the government’s proposed timeline for a new gambling law. The current legislative draft suggests that some vital harm reduction measures might not take effect until 2026. This date aligns with the planned shift to a licensing system for online gambling. THL strongly argues that such delays are unacceptable. It views this as a critical misstep in protecting public health.

The institute emphasizes that gambling harm is a present and pressing issue. It affects individuals and families right now. Postponing effective interventions means more people will suffer unnecessary harm in the interim. The transition to a new licensing system does not negate the immediate need for protective policies under the existing framework. In fact, robust measures should be in place before any market liberalization to prevent an increase in harm.

Lessons from Nordic Neighbors and Government Aims

THL often references the experiences of other Nordic countries in its arguments. Nations like Sweden and Norway have already implemented similar protective measures. These have shown varying degrees of success in their respective markets. Such comparisons bolster THL’s insistence on immediate action in Finland. The institute believes Finland can learn from these neighbors.

The current Finnish government has publicly stated an ambitious goal. It aims to reduce gambling harm by 10% by the year 2030. However, THL casts doubt on the achievability of this target without rapid and comprehensive policy changes. The institute questions how this reduction can occur if effective tools are delayed. The new legislation does include provisions for a "reverse blacklist" and payment blocking. These are designed to combat unlicensed operators. However, THL's primary concern remains the protection of players within the regulated market.

The Finland Health Institute harm prevention warning underscores a critical moment for Finnish gambling policy. The debate centers on balancing market reform with the paramount need for public health protection. The institute’s message is clear: the time for action is now.

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