A majority of people in the Netherlands continue to experience a social taboo when it comes to talking about gambling and gambling addiction, according to new research published by the Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) in collaboration with information platform OpenOverGokken.
The survey, conducted among 1,000 Dutch adults, found that 56% believe gambling-related problems remain difficult to discuss openly.
The findings contrast with the prevalence of gambling activity in the country. Almost half of Dutch people (48%) gamble at least once a month, with lotteries and scratch cards remaining the most common forms.
Lotteries, including the state-run Staatsloterij, are played by 59% of respondents, while 33% report buying scratch cards.
Online gambling also plays a role, with around 6% of the adult population using licensed online gambling platforms.
Average annual gambling expenditure in the Netherlands is estimated at €298 ($347) per person.
While most participation is recreational, the research highlights ongoing challenges for individuals experiencing harm. More than half of respondents (53%) said they were unsure where to seek help for gambling addiction, while 29% indicated they would not dare to ask for help themselves if they developed a problem.
Attitudes toward gambling addiction appear to contribute to this reluctance, with 75% viewing gambling problems primarily as the result of poor personal choices.
Intervening when others may be at risk also presents difficulties. Around 34% of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable raising concerns about someone else’s gambling behaviour.
The data shows a gender difference, with 41% of men finding such conversations difficult compared with 27% of women.
KSA said the findings underline the importance of improving awareness of support services and reducing stigma, with platforms such as OpenOverGokken intended to provide accessible information and guidance.
The findings come as KSA continues strengthening enforcement measures against illegal operators. Earlier this year, the regulator imposed a €4.23m fine on Starscream Limited for offering unlicensed gambling services through three websites accessible to Dutch players, citing player protection failures, including absent age verification checks and prohibited autoplay features.
The KSA underwent significant governance restructuring earlier this month, implementing a new board structure with one full-time chair and two part-time members
