The Greek Gaming Commission (EEEP) has presented its ongoing “Don’t Pinch” gambling awareness programme at the 90th Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF). The campaign is part of the Commission’s efforts to raise awareness of gambling-related harms among young people.
The programme aims to educate students, teachers, young people and parents about the risks associated with gambling. It provides them with educational resources designed to help them recognise and understand gambling-related risks.
Commenting on its development, EEEP President Antonis Vartholomaios stated: “The ‘Don’t Pinch’ campaign is an initiative of the EEEP that has been underway for more than a year and a half. We have embraced it and have worked very hard for it. It concerns the vulnerable group of our students and young people, who need to be informed about the dangers of gambling addiction.”
The initiative is also supported by the National Organisation for the Prevention and Treatment of Addictions (EOPAE), whose President Athanasios Theocharis highlighted the growing overlap between gambling, internet use and digital addiction.
According to the EEEP, research has found that one in four 16-year-olds in Europe and one in three in Greece have participated in some form of gambling.
The “Don’t Pinch” programme is built around three areas: educational material for students, resources for parents, as well as training and support for teachers. It will rely on cooperation among schools, parents’ associations, local authorities and other stakeholders.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by Greek authorities to prevent gambling addiction and strengthen protections for young people.
EEEP is exploring allowing live casino studios in Greece, potentially creating new opportunities for operators and suppliers while reducing reliance on overseas facilities
