WHO to form taskforce of “global experts” to tackle gambling-related harm 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed it is sourcing a “group of global experts” to address gambling-related harm on a global scale, as the body said a universal ban on gambling ads would effectively prevent harm.

The United Nations agency issued an update on gambling on 2 December, in which it detailed how 1.2% of the world’s adult population has a gambling disorder of some kind. 

The WHO’s release also outlined how estimates from H2 Gambling Capital that global gambling revenue will hit the $700bn mark by 2028, with online wagering in low- and middle-income countries spearheading much of that growth. 

The WHO’s release also highlighted findings from Gambling Research Exchange Ontario that claim 60% of the industry’s revenue stems from those gambling at harmful levels. 

In turn, the WHO outlined several “universal, population-wide public health approaches [that] are required to prevent gambling harm”.

These include a total ban on advertising and promotion as a necessary first step to prevent and reduce harm. 

As part of its emphasis on strict regulation, the WHO also stressed the need for a universal registration system that includes binding loss limits, maximum stakes and required breaks in gaming sessions.  

The body also argued for more effective regulation, a need to address the industry’s influence on policy and research on the sector and counter-messaging to warn about gambling-related harms.

Addressing how in regions where gambling is legalised, the state is often boosted by tax revenues generated by the sector, leading to what the organisation described as “disincentives to reduce harm”. 

“Gambling industry groups typically strongly oppose high-impact regulations and other measures that affect their commercial interests,” the WHO noted. “Corporate political activity is widespread and effective in protecting the interests of these businesses.  

“The research sector has also been influenced by industry using funding and other support. Limiting the capacity of vested interests to influence the research agenda and public policies are among the key public health objectives.” 

The WHO noted how the most effective response to gambling-harm “requires intergovernmental cooperation”, before urging “multisectoral action” from its members to monitor and regulate gambling operations. 

“This should include reducing stigma and shame related to gambling, ending advertising and promotion, and a focus on other upstream efforts to prevent and reduce gambling harm,” the organisation added. 

The WHO plans to orchestrate “global experts” in a bid to tackle the public health implications of gambling-related harm. 

The group in question, once formed, will be tasked with developing new tools to diagnose gambling disorders.