Citation[]
European Commission, Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on the 'Green Paper on Online Gambling in the Internal Market' (COM(2011) 128 final) (Jan. 28, 2012) (full-text).
Overview[]
The EESC noted that there are a number of objectives which are common to all EU Member States. These are: the fight against illegal gambling activities, the protection of consumers, the preservation of public order and the funding of public interest objectives (good causes).
Consumer protection is an area where the EU can bring value added to its citizens. The EU should create an EU framework in the form of EU consumer protection legislation binding on all online gambling operators licensed in the EU.
The EESC also called for the introduction of strict regulation concerning the prohibition of gambling advertising aimed at minors or including minors or persons who appear to be below the national age limit for gambling to ensure that minors and other vulnerable groups are effectively protected.