Greece signs deal to address gambling addiction

To address the growing concerns of gambling addiction, the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) and the Health Quality Assurance Organisation (ODIPY) of Greece have officially entered into a three-year partnership aimed at reducing the social and psychological toll associated with gambling behaviors. This partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding, which outlines a shared framework for identifying, preventing, and mitigating the impact of gambling addiction on Greek society.

The formal agreement, which spans from 2025 to 2028, is seen as a progressive step in aligning public health resources with regulatory oversight. Both agencies have committed to promoting responsible gambling practices while ensuring early detection of addictive behaviors, timely psychological support, and structured rehabilitation services.

Strategic collaboration to overcome systemic barriers

EEEP President Dimitris Dzanatos emphasized that the memorandum is not a symbolic gesture, but a functional tool designed to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies and accelerate the implementation of scientifically supported interventions. “This partnership allows us to overcome bureaucratic barriers and implement effective, coordinated solutions,” Dzanatos said during the signing event.

His statement points to a history of fragmented or isolated efforts within the Greek public sector, which has often delayed or diluted the impact of anti-addiction programs. Through this partnership, EEEP and ODIPY aim to create a centralized and agile system for managing gambling-related disorders.

ODIPY Chief Executive Officer Christos Nestoras also acknowledged the importance of coordinated efforts rooted in scientific evidence. He described the agreement as “a step toward a modern, evidence-based framework that supports citizens and those in need,” underlining the agency’s intent to establish robust support mechanisms through clinical guidance, policy innovation, and continuous monitoring.

The growing concern over gambling addiction in Greece

While gambling is a longstanding social activity in Greece, recent years have witnessed a sharp rise in both the availability of gambling platforms and the number of individuals exhibiting signs of problematic gambling. Online gambling, in particular, has expanded significantly following legal changes and market liberalization, contributing to increased accessibility and exposure, especially among younger demographics.

Surveys conducted by national health authorities and independent research institutes indicate a growing segment of the population—especially adults under the age of 35—experiencing symptoms aligned with gambling addiction. These include compulsive betting, financial distress, social withdrawal, and deteriorating mental health.

Health experts warn that untreated gambling addiction can mirror the clinical symptoms of substance abuse, including impulsive behavior, heightened anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation in extreme cases.

Key components of the agreement

The new agreement introduces a range of structured interventions, some of which are already under development. The core elements include:

Promotion of responsible gambling

Both institutions will engage in public awareness campaigns designed to educate gamblers on the principles of responsible behavior, setting limits, and understanding the risks associated with excessive betting. This includes printed materials, digital outreach, and mandatory informational pop-ups on online gambling platforms.

Early detection and risk identification

A primary feature of the agreement is the implementation of risk assessment tools within licensed gambling environments. These tools will identify early signs of addiction and trigger automated alerts or human intervention where necessary.

Access to psychological support services

ODIPY is responsible for mobilizing clinical resources, including the deployment of trained psychologists and psychiatrists who specialize in behavioral addictions. The objective is to deliver discreet, accessible, and prompt support services tailored to individuals seeking assistance.

Rehabilitation and reintegration

Beyond prevention and early-stage intervention, the agreement places significant emphasis on rehabilitation. Structured recovery programs, including group therapy, personalized treatment plans, and post-recovery monitoring, are central to the long-term success of this initiative.

Oversight and implementation committee

To ensure accountability and transparency, a joint committee comprising representatives from both EEEP and ODIPY will oversee the day-to-day implementation of the memorandum. The committee is tasked with evaluating outcomes, making data-driven adjustments, and providing annual public reports detailing program impact, reach, and operational challenges.

This committee will also coordinate with other governmental agencies, including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance, to streamline funding, legislative support, and access to national health infrastructure.

Legal framework and risk management

Given the increasing legal scrutiny surrounding gambling operations and the exposure of operators to litigation, the partnership also incorporates a legal compliance element. This ensures that interventions adhere to existing national laws and EU directives concerning public health, personal data protection, and individual rights.

To minimize legal exposure, both EEEP and ODIPY have subjected the agreement to internal legal reviews. Furthermore, all procedures involving individual gamblers—such as screening or treatment—will require informed consent, ensuring compliance with privacy legislation including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

International precedents and Greece’s role

Greece becomes one of several European countries increasingly aligning gambling regulation with comprehensive public health initiatives. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Sweden, and the Netherlands have implemented similar partnerships between gambling regulators and healthcare providers, often reporting improved outcomes in terms of addiction recovery and reduced relapse rates.

With the launch of this memorandum, Greece is establishing itself as a frontrunner in responsibly addressing and managing the harms associated with gambling in the region. The initiative could serve as a model for other countries seeking to balance economic revenue from legal gambling with social responsibility.

Economic and social implications

Beyond the health benefits, this coordinated effort has significant economic implications. The cost of untreated gambling addiction—through lost productivity, family breakdown, crime, and healthcare utilization—is estimated to run into the millions of euros annually. The partnership, therefore, not only serves a humanitarian function but may also result in long-term savings for the national economy.

Additionally, the initiative may positively influence public perception, contributing to increased trust in the regulatory system and the gambling industry as a whole. Responsible operators stand to benefit from the credibility gained through participation in socially responsible initiatives.

The road ahead

Although the partnership is still in its early stages, its long-term success will depend on adequate funding, inter-agency collaboration, and continued public engagement. Both agencies have committed to reviewing progress annually and updating the program based on empirical evidence.

Ultimately, the agreement represents a formal acknowledgment of gambling addiction as a public health issue—not simply a moral or regulatory concern—and marks a turning point in how Greek institutions respond to behavioral health challenges.

Conclusion

The strategic partnership between the Hellenic Gaming Commission and the Health Quality Assurance Organisation marks a critical advancement in Greece’s approach to managing gambling addiction as a public health concern. By prioritizing early detection, psychological support, and comprehensive rehabilitation within a legally compliant and scientifically guided framework, the agreement reflects a responsible and forward-looking public policy initiative. If successfully implemented and sustained, this collaboration has the potential not only to alleviate individual suffering but also to generate broader social and economic benefits, positioning Greece as a model of ethical governance in the regulation of gambling activities.

FAQs

What is the main purpose of the agreement between EEEP and ODIPY?
The primary goal is to create a coordinated, science-based approach to reduce gambling addiction and its societal impact in Greece.

Who will benefit from this partnership?
Greek citizens at risk of or currently experiencing gambling addiction will benefit through access to early intervention, psychological support, and rehabilitation services.

How long is the agreement valid?
The memorandum of understanding is valid for three years, from 2025 to 2028.

Is the agreement legally binding?
While not a legislative act, the agreement represents a formal and institutional commitment between two state-affiliated organizations.

Will there be any public awareness campaigns?
Yes, the agreement includes a mandate for joint public education campaigns to promote responsible gambling and early warning signs.

How will psychological support be delivered?
ODIPY will deploy licensed professionals including psychologists and psychiatrists specializing in addiction treatment to offer support services.

What is the role of the joint oversight committee?
The committee will manage implementation, track performance, publish annual reports, and recommend policy adjustments as needed.

Is there a privacy protection mechanism in place?
Yes, all personal data involved in interventions will be handled in accordance with GDPR and other national data protection laws.

How does this compare to other European countries?
Greece’s model is similar to those adopted by countries like the UK and Sweden, which also integrate gambling regulation with public health systems.

Will gambling operators be affected by this initiative?
Yes, licensed operators will need to comply with responsible gambling requirements and may be required to integrate new risk identification tools.