The European Union’s executive branch, at the request of Malta’s government, has extended the “suspension period” for Belgium’s upcoming advertising prohibition, which could postpone the law’s enactment.
The Belgian government has presented a royal decree to the European Commission that prohibits gambling advertising (excluding national lotteries). Other EU member states can raise objections if they believe the law will impede the free movement of goods, services, and individuals within the EU.
The Belgian government has provided justifications for enacting the legislation.
“Gambling advertising is prevalent on television, radio, social media, and public spaces,” it stated. “This advertising poses risks to public health and society. Advertising normalizes gambling in society.
“Through advertising, gambling is portrayed as a socially and culturally acceptable activity, and a legitimate leisure pursuit. This is detrimental to vulnerable groups such as minors, young people, and individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
“In the absence of standardized regulations at the EU level, member states have the authority to establish rules in this domain.”
This legislation seeks to enhance player safeguards by restricting the kinds of promotional materials permitted within the gambling and wagering industry and regulating the content of such advertisements.
Following its submission to the European Commission, the proposed law must undergo a period of inactivity, enabling nations to express their dissent before it comes into force. Initially, the standstill period for the Belgian Royal Decree was scheduled to conclude on August 9th.
However, the Maltese government effectively extended the standstill period until September 9th, potentially delaying the final enactment of the law and hinting at further objections from the island nation.
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