GGL Enhances Cooperation with State Offices

GGL Strengthens Collaboration with State Offices to Combat Gambling Addiction in Germany

Germany’s gambling regulator, the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), is taking proactive steps to tackle the growing issue of gambling addiction by deepening its cooperation with state coordination offices across the country. This intensified collaboration aims to enhance prevention, provide better support to affected individuals, and raise public awareness about the dangers of gambling. With the implementation of the State Treaty on Gambling, Germany has laid the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to responsible gambling. But what does this partnership mean for the fight against gambling-related harm in Germany? Let’s explore the impact of this strengthened alliance.

A New Era of Collaboration: GGL and State Offices Join Forces

The deepened collaboration between the GGL and the state coordination offices for gambling addiction officially began on August 29, 2024, with a pivotal meeting between GGL chairman Ronald Benter and Konrad Landgraf, managing director of the State Office for Gambling Addiction in Bavaria. This meeting marked the start of a series of strategic initiatives aimed at aligning the efforts of federal and state entities in combating gambling-related issues.

During the meeting, Benter gained valuable insights into the Bavarian office’s operations and its integration into the broader addiction support network in the state. This interaction allowed the GGL to better understand the on-the-ground challenges faced by regional offices and the specific needs of the communities they serve.

“It is crucial for us to hear the perspectives of all relevant interest groups and to get a comprehensive picture of the situation,” Benter commented after the meeting. “Player protection and raising public awareness are high priorities for us. Through thematic exchange with the state coordination offices, we are further expanding our expertise.”

Strengthening Prevention and Support Services Across Germany

Germany’s State Treaty on Gambling, introduced to regulate the rapidly expanding gambling market, mandates that all federal states provide prevention and counselling services to address gambling addiction. The state coordination offices play a vital role in this framework, serving as the frontline providers of support and information to those struggling with gambling-related issues.

These offices are tasked with drawing public attention to the available, publicly funded addiction services, which are essential for supporting individuals affected by gambling harms. By enhancing cooperation, the GGL aims to ensure that these resources are effectively utilized and that the services offered are aligned with the latest research and best practices in addiction prevention.

The GGL’s initiative also emphasizes the importance of a coordinated approach, bringing together federal and state-level efforts to create a cohesive response to gambling addiction. The goal is to facilitate a continuous exchange of ideas on gambling law and addiction prevention, ensuring that every measure taken is grounded in practical, evidence-based strategies.

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Dialogue and Cooperation

The GGL’s commitment to deepening its partnership with state offices marks the beginning of a broader, more intensive dialogue on how best to tackle gambling addiction. Following the initial meeting in Bavaria, Benter is scheduled to visit the State Office for Gambling Addiction of the Addiction Cooperation North Rhine-Westphalia in October. These meetings are part of an ongoing effort to better understand the unique challenges faced by different regions and to develop joint approaches for enhanced cooperation.

Additionally, a larger joint meeting of representatives from all state coordination offices is planned for the autumn. This gathering will serve as a platform for exchanging knowledge, discussing common issues, and developing unified strategies to improve gambling addiction prevention and support services across the nation.

This deepened cooperation follows a visit by representatives from the state offices to the GGL headquarters in Halle last year, where the groundwork for enhanced collaboration was first laid. The ongoing commitment between the GGL and state offices reflects a shared vision of creating a safer gambling environment in Germany, prioritizing player protection, and reducing the prevalence of gambling-related harm.

The strengthened collaboration between GGL and the state coordination offices for gambling addiction marks a significant step forward in Germany’s fight against gambling-related harm. By pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise, the GGL and state offices are better positioned to address the challenges posed by gambling addiction. This partnership not only enhances the effectiveness of prevention and counselling services but also reinforces Germany’s commitment to player protection and responsible gambling.

As Germany continues to refine its gambling regulatory framework, the close cooperation between federal and state entities will be crucial in ensuring that safeguards are robust, responsive, and effective. For those affected by gambling addiction, this collaborative approach offers hope for better support and more effective prevention measures, creating a safer gambling environment for all.