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Countries around the world continue to grapple with the thorny issue of gambling legislation. In Poland, the government has taken an approach best described as one of complete control.
As society’s attitudes towards the industry have changed over the years, the government’s own policies have let the country lag behind in some respects, as other, more liberal approaches seen elsewhere have brought economic rewards.
But when there’s a fine balance to be struck between the welfare of society and advancing the economy, how is Poland coping?
The legal framework
Gambling in Poland is regulated by the Act on Gambling Games, which was passed by the government in November 2009. The Gambling Act, as it is more commonly known, sets out exactly what activities are permitted and under what conditions. It also explains how the industry is taxed.
Poland puts all gambling activities into four broader categories: betting, games of chance, card games and slot machines. These have their own specific laws governing them. Every operator must be licensed to operate in Poland, and those who aren’t risk fines or even imprisonment.
State monopoly and licensing
Poland has taken an approach to gambling best described as a monopoly. The state-owned company Totalizator Sportowy holds the exclusive rights to offer a selection of cash lotteries and games. In 2017, this stranglehold on the industry was increased to include online slot games, with the state operator now the only one who can legally provide those services.
When it comes to betting and casinos, private companies are allowed to apply for a licence to operate. They must stick to strict guidelines on transparency and finances, as well as promoting responsible gambling. Licenses last for six years but can be renewed subject to the operator proving that they have abided by the laws in every regard.
Online regulations
Much like elsewhere around the globe, online gambling is a huge growth sector in Poland, especially with younger players. The Polish government has also moved to ensure that the sector is regulated in a way that balances looking after the public with potentially lucrative economic benefits.
As you might expect, online betting in Poland is heavily regulated, with only those licensed in the country able to serve Polish players. International operators targeting Polish players without that licence are illegal, with a range of sanctions being employed to try to stop them. This is why resources such as https://kasynoorzel.eu/ are so important, as they list a range of reputable sites that Polish players can use, spelling out what each one has to offer in an easy-to-understand way.
Taxation and economic impact
There are many ways that the gambling industry is taxed in Poland, and that includes differences depending on whether the activity takes place online or offline.
Betting operators must pay a 12% tax on turnover rather than just on their profits. This is considered high compared to some of their European neighbours and has attracted criticism for discouraging private investors from becoming part of the industry, and in turn limiting the options available to Polish players.
Casino and slot machine operators have different tax rates, but the state still claws back a substantial sum from these sectors as well. The Polish government also pours a sizable sum from online gambling taxes into social and cultural programmes to help the wider society.
Social and ethical considerations
Poland takes its commitment to society’s welfare very seriously, and that is part of shaping gambling policy as much as any economic considerations. Like other regions, Poland has recognised the importance of responsible gambling. Licensed operators have obligations to warn players of the dangers of addiction. Those spiralling into bad playing habits can end up facing significant hardship in terms of their finances and well-being.
That’s why licensed operators also have a duty to provide self-exclusion options as well as monitor behaviour for signs of problem gambling. Self-exclusion puts the player in control of their play and lets them take a prolonged time out. While that is useful for those still in control of their gambling, those struggling should be able to rely on the platforms to step in.
Advertising in the gambling sector is also under very tight government controls. Limitations are in place regarding what adverts can be used and where to protect a range of vulnerable groups, not least of which is children.
Future challenges
Poland’s future looks set to continue the balancing act of public welfare and economic benefits. The state monopoly gives the Polish government absolute control of the industry, but in doing so, limits the competition, which fundamentally gives players less choice than they’d have elsewhere.
Technology will also play its part in any future reform. Just as legislation had to be passed when online gambling became a business in its own right, any significant changes such as artificial intelligence or an increase in virtual casinos, will put current legislation to the test.
There are calls to liberalise the sector, especially in relation to online gambling, but any change in these laws would still need to protect the vulnerable in society at its heart — an approach Poland is rightfully proud of.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
