German Sports Betting Association Applauds Rise in Self-Exclusions

The DSWV, the German sports betting trade association, has expressed its approval of the growing number of self-excluded players in the country. The association attributes this increase to the enhanced player protection measures implemented by operators.

DSWV Advocates Successful Player Protection Amid Expanded OASIS Integration

The number of individuals enrolled in Germany’s OASIS system has experienced a notable increase, soaring from 47,000 in 2020 to 192,600. However, some German media outlets have criticized this surge in self-exclusions over the past three years, suggesting that it signifies a rise in problem gambling resulting from the opening of Germany’s gambling market under new legislation in 2021.

Burkhard Blienert, Germany’s federal addiction and drug commissioner, emphasized the significance of the substantial number of player bans. He stated that it vividly demonstrates the profound impact of gambling addiction on both the individuals affected and their surrounding circles, underscoring the magnitude of suffering endured by many.

Expansion of OASIS: Debunking Misinterpretations

Contrary to such conclusions, the German sports betting trade association DSWV argues that the increase in registrations stems from a greater number of operators integrating with the OASIS system after its expansion beyond Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate in 2021.

Previously, as of June 2021, merely 464 gambling operators and 1,529 locations were linked to OASIS, predominantly gaming arcades in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, along with select casinos and sports betting establishments. However, this number has since surged to 6,400 operators managing 29,500 venues, as online gambling operators formerly operating in the grey market connected to the system.

The DSWV argues that the increase in self-exclusions is a logical outcome and should not be surprising from a statistical perspective.

DSWV President Mathias Dahms highlighted that the surge does not reflect an increase in gambling addicts but rather an expanding group of players who can benefit from OASIS and comprehensive protection across all providers. The evolving OASIS figures serve as evidence of successful player protection and the functionality of the blocking system.

Addressing Misconceptions: Player Protection and the German Gaming Market

Dahms emphasized that drawing a general attack on the State Treaty on Gaming or licensed gaming providers from the increased figures fails to acknowledge the history and effectiveness of the blocking system, as well as the improved player protection situation in the German gaming market.

Germany’s OASIS system allows individuals to self-block, and they can also be blocked by partners or family members. Gambling operators are required to implement a block when players exhibit signs of debt or gambling addiction.

The DSWV has actively lobbied for greater efforts to combat black-market gambling in Germany, contending that the country’s stringent regulations in the regulated market pose challenges in diverting individuals away from unlicensed offerings.