Switzerland and Liechtenstein have implemented a groundbreaking cross-border exclusion list for individuals banned from gambling in either country. The new scheme came into force on January 7, 2025. It is a significant step towards consumer protection. Now, anyone excluded from online and land-based casinos in one country cannot access them from the other.

This collaborative approach creates a more effective self-exclusion system, helping to curb problem gambling. By sharing exclusion data, casinos in both countries can better identify and prevent individuals with gambling addictions from accessing gambling services across the border.

Existing Protections and the New Agreement

Swiss casinos are already obligated to exclude players exhibiting signs of gambling addiction, exceeding their financial means, or refusing to disclose their financial status. This includes:

• Excluded Individuals: Ensuring players who have voluntarily self-excluded from gambling or have been reported by concerned family members cannot gamble.
• Affordability Checks: Implementation of affordability checks requiring players to prove financial stability.

The new agreement builds upon these safeguards; individuals banned in Switzerland, with an estimated 100,000 bans currently in place, will also be excluded from casinos in Liechtenstein. Conversely, Liechtenstein’s exclusion list will be reciprocally applied in Switzerland.

Industry Support and Future Implications

Der Schweizer Casino Verband (SCV), the Swiss casino industry association, has welcomed the agreement. It recognizes that individuals were previously able to circumvent self-exclusion in one country by crossing the border. Therefore, the SCV believes the cross-border exclusion list significantly enhances player protection.

Such circumvention tactics have historically been made easier due to operating in the same economic area and the shared open border between the two countries.

This cross-border approach is seen as a potential model for other European countries. It demonstartes how neighboring nations can effectively cooperate to safeguard vulnerable individuals from gambling harm.

Potential Impact on Players

The cross-border self-exclusion initiative will impact players struggling with problem gambling. It will particularly affect those who travel frequently between Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The list eliminates the ability to gamble in both countries. This helps to:

• Reduce accessibility: Limits an individual’s access to land-based and online gambling.
• Promote support: Encourages individuals to seek help with gambling-related problems.

Since many residents of both countries work and socialize across the border, a ban in only one country would likely be ineffective. Additionally, the focus on affordability checks can help to identify individuals at risk of developing gambling problems before they escalate.

However, this measure does not provide a complete solution to those experiencing gambling problems. They should also take proactive steps to tackle the issue. Support services and treatment options are readily available for people struggling with gambling addiction. They can help towards long-term recovery.

The Role of Public Awareness

The success of this initiative, and responsible gambling efforts in general, relies heavily on public awareness. Educational campaigns can:

• Inform individuals about the risks of gambling addiction.
• Empower players to recognize the signs of problematic behavior.
• Highlight the resources available for help.
• Promote safer gambling practices, such as setting spending limits and taking breaks.

The initiative will build on counselling and treatment options that are already available from organizations such as SOS-Spielsucht.ch and Gamblers Anonymous.

While this cross-border agreement is an important step forward, it is necessary to address the underlying factors contributing to problem gambling. This involves responsible gambling education and awareness campaigns targeting young people. The Swiss Gambling Supervisory Authority (GESPA) will play a key role in providing these services.

Research is needed into the psychological and social factors that contribute to gambling addiction. Such research can help to develop more effective prevention and treatment programs. Furthermore, it provides useful insights to guide policy decisions relating to gambling risks.

The Challenge of Illegal Online Gambling

While this agreement represents a significant step forward, it does not address the growing challenge of illegal online gambling. Unlicensed foreign operators currently dominate a substantial portion of the Swiss online gambling market, estimated at around 40% by the Swiss Federal Gaming Board.

These platforms operate outside local regulations, allowing individuals on exclusion lists to continue gambling unrestricted. In addition, they evade taxation, posing significant challenges for the regulated gambling sector.

The Swiss Casino Association has strongly advocated stricter measures to combat illegal operators. This includes intensified efforts to block access to these platforms and the development of a legal framework to extend gambling bans to other European countries.

A Growing Concern Across Europe

The issue of illegal online gambling is not unique to Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Other European countries, including Germany, Sweden, and Belgium, are grappling with the rise of unlicensed platforms and their impact on the regulated market.

While some regulators downplay the severity of the problem, industry experts have highlighted concerns. They warn that these platforms undermine player protection and reduce legal gambling revenues. Moreover, they undermine the integrity of the regulated gambling sector.

Conclusion

Implementing the cross-border exclusion list marks a significant milestone in the fight against problem gambling in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and promoting responsible gaming practices.

However, the continued growth of illegal online gambling poses a significant challenge. Addressing this issue effectively will require a coordinated effort from gambling operators, regulators, and law enforcement agencies. By working together, they can ensure a safe and responsible gambling environment for all.