GGL promotes awareness on illegal gambling activities

The German Gambling Authority (GGL) is once again preparing for its nationwide National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction, an initiative aimed at raising awareness of gambling-related harm and promoting responsible play across Germany. Under the guiding theme, “Gambling damage – recognise, name, avoid,” the event highlights the risks of gambling, particularly among young people, and reinforces the importance of regulated gambling environments.

The annual action day is part of a broader campaign by the GGL to educate the public, provide resources, and encourage safer gambling practices throughout the country. Last year, the initiative led to more than 1,500 reports concerning black-market gambling activity from players nationwide, signaling both the public’s engagement and the ongoing need for vigilance in the sector.

Focus areas for the National Day of Action

Ahead of the 2025 event, the GGL has identified five key areas of focus:

• Sports betting
• Gambling addiction prevention
• Channelisation to regulated platforms
• Player protection measures
• Public education and awareness campaigns

By concentrating on these areas, the Authority seeks to mitigate the risks associated with unregulated gambling, improve consumer protection, and ensure that legal gambling operators are held to consistent standards.

Gambling addiction and youth risk

A central concern for the GGL is the vulnerability of younger players. Research has consistently shown that adolescents and young adults are particularly susceptible to developing gambling-related problems, due to factors such as impulsivity, peer influence, and the increasing availability of online gambling products.

“Gambling damage – recognise, name, avoid” is more than a slogan; it is a call to action for parents, educators, regulators, and the wider public to identify early signs of gambling harm and take proactive steps to prevent escalation. The GGL’s educational efforts include distributing informational materials, hosting seminars, and providing easy access to helplines and counselling services.

The importance of regulated gambling

In its article, the GGL underscores the significance of playing at regulated casinos. The Authority emphasizes that adhering to licensed platforms helps prevent fraud, ensures compliance with consumer protection standards, and minimizes exposure to problematic gambling behavior.

Addiction prevention is a core responsibility for the GGL. The Authority works closely with stakeholders to implement measures such as deposit limits, self-exclusion programs, and mandatory age verification. These interventions are designed to reduce the risk of gambling-related harm while maintaining fair and transparent market operations.

Sports betting under scrutiny

The article also addresses the “controversial topic” of sports betting, a rapidly expanding segment of the German gambling market. Sebastian Buchholz, Head of the Permits and Supervision of Legal Gambling Department at GGL, stated:

“Sports betting is a growing market, consistent supervision of legal providers is important in addition to combating illegal betting offers in order to protect players and ensure legal certainty in the market.”

Mr. Buchholz will present a lecture at the upcoming symposium in Halle, discussing current trends, challenges, and the regulatory framework surrounding online sports betting in Germany. His extensive experience includes prior roles as Gambling Supervisor at the Ministry of the Interior and Sports, followed by serving as Deputy Chair of the Gambling Board in Saxony-Anhalt.

Resources and support for players

To support responsible gambling, the GGL’s article provides comprehensive guidance on available help services across Germany. This includes information about national helplines, local counselling centers, online portals, and the official whitelist of licensed gambling companies. By directing players to verified sources, the Authority aims to discourage engagement with unlicensed operators and reduce the prevalence of illegal gambling activity.

The National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction also complements ongoing international initiatives. While Germany’s campaign is still developing compared to the UK’s Safer Gambling Week (17-23 November 2025) or the US Responsible Gaming Education Month (September 2025), it represents a significant step forward in public education and preventative action within the country.

Challenges in Germany’s regulatory landscape

Founded in 2023, the GGL faces the ongoing challenge of overcoming stagnation in Germany’s gambling regulation. Legal reforms, regulatory harmonization, and enforcement against illegal operators remain high priorities for the Authority.

The GGL continues to advocate for clear, enforceable standards for both online and offline gambling, striving to maintain a balance between consumer protection and industry growth. This involves collaborating with government agencies, licensed operators, and international regulators to ensure that Germany’s gambling sector remains both secure and transparent.

Looking ahead

The 2025 National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction represents a strategic effort by the GGL to consolidate its regulatory approach, strengthen public awareness, and reduce gambling-related harm across Germany. By focusing on high-risk groups, promoting regulated gambling, and providing practical support resources, the Authority demonstrates its commitment to responsible gambling.

The initiative also underscores the need for ongoing research, dialogue, and innovation within the gambling industry. As new technologies and betting formats emerge, regulators like the GGL must adapt quickly to protect players, maintain fair market conditions, and uphold public confidence in the legal gambling sector.

In conclusion, the National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction is a vital component of Germany’s broader commitment to safe and responsible gambling. Through targeted awareness campaigns, consistent supervision of operators, and provision of robust support networks, the GGL is actively working to mitigate risks and empower players to make informed choices.

Conclusion

The National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction demonstrates the German Gambling Authority’s (GGL) commitment to promoting responsible gambling and protecting players from harm. By emphasizing regulated gambling, monitoring sports betting, and providing access to support services, the Authority seeks to address both immediate risks and long-term challenges associated with gambling in Germany. The initiative also highlights the particular vulnerability of young people, underscoring the need for education, awareness, and preventative measures.

Through consistent supervision of licensed operators, collaboration with stakeholders, and public outreach, the GGL is taking concrete steps to ensure a safer and more transparent gambling environment. While Germany’s campaign is still evolving compared to international benchmarks, the ongoing efforts reflect a proactive and responsible approach to mitigating gambling-related harm, safeguarding players, and fostering a culture of informed and secure participation in the gambling sector.

FAQs

What is the National Day of Action Against Gambling Addiction?
It is an annual initiative in Germany aimed at raising awareness of gambling harm and promoting responsible play among the public.

Who organizes the Gambling Addiction Action Day in Germany?
The event is organized by the German Gambling Authority (GGL), founded in 2023.

What is the theme of the 2025 action day?
The theme is “Gambling damage – recognise, name, avoid,” highlighting awareness and prevention of gambling harm.

Why is sports betting considered controversial?
Sports betting is a growing market, and unregulated or illegal offers can pose significant risks to players and market integrity.

What resources are available for players struggling with gambling addiction?
The GGL provides helplines, counselling centers, online support portals, and a whitelist of licensed gambling operators.

How does regulated gambling protect players?
Regulated gambling ensures compliance with consumer protection standards, fair play, and reduces exposure to illegal operators.

What role does Sebastian Buchholz play in gambling regulation?
He is the Head of the Permits and Supervision of Legal Gambling Department at GGL and has extensive prior experience in regulatory roles.

How does Germany’s initiative compare internationally?
It is developing, similar to the UK’s Safer Gambling Week and the US Responsible Gaming Education Month, with a growing focus on public education and prevention.

What challenges does the GGL face in Germany?
Challenges include regulatory stagnation, combating illegal operators, harmonizing laws, and protecting vulnerable players.

Why is youth gambling considered a key concern?
Young people are more susceptible to gambling harm due to impulsivity, peer influence, and exposure to online gambling platforms.