Slovakia forms evidence coalition for Gen-z gambling rules

The protection of Generation Z and Alpha audiences from gambling-related harms and risks has been established as the cornerstone of a new research partnership in Slovakia. The Slovak Gambling Regulatory Authority (URHH) has launched its new “Safer Digital Future” mandate, to develop a comprehensive strategy for protecting young people from gambling risks and disorders. The initiative has been established through a memorandum of cooperation with the Department of Digital Games at the Faculty of Mass Media Communication of the University of St Cyril and the research agency of Methodius in Trnava (FMK UCM). Through the partnership, URHH and the university will gather evidence on the risks that emerging digital products and behaviours pose to younger audiences. Research will focus particularly on the growing convergence between video gaming and gambling through features such as loot boxes, skin betting and randomised reward systems. URHH warned that the traditional boundaries separating gaming from gambling are becoming increasingly difficult to define. Modern monetisation models, advanced game design and social media can expose young people to chance-based spending and mechanics that resemble traditional gambling products. Evidence for Gen-z and Alphas The regulator is concerned that repeated exposure to such features could normalise risk-taking and shape positive attitudes for Gen-Z (14-29 year olds) and Alpha (1-13 year olds) Libuša Baranová, Director General of URHH, said that regulators must develop a deeper understanding of how younger generations interact with digital products. “For Generations Z and Alpha, technology is not just a tool, but a natural environment in which they shape their identity, social relationships and worldview,” Baranová explained. “They perceive the digital and real world as one interconnected whole. Therefore, if we want to effectively protect the young generation from the risks of the digital age, we must be one step ahead. “We need to know in detail the specifics of the gaming industry, video game design and psychological mechanisms that affect young people.” The Department of Digital Games operates Slovakia’s first comprehensive academic programme dedicated to digital games and game studies. Its expertise will be used to help URHH monitor developments in gaming, evaluate emerging risks and design evidence-led prevention programmes. The memorandum will also support the systematic exchange of knowledge between researchers and the regulator, providing a framework for future studies and youth-focused educational activities. Juliána Mináriková, Acting Dean of FMK UCM, described digital games as one of the most influential environments shaping the attitudes and behaviour of younger generations. She said: “It is important to understand their mechanics not only from the perspective of design and player experience, but also from the perspective of their possible risks. “We see cooperation with the Gambling Regulatory Authority as an opportunity to connect our knowledge of the gaming industry with practical prevention tools and thus contribute to ensuring that young people are able to use the digital environment responsibly.” President still considering gambling review The National Council of Slovakia continues to consider whether to undertake a broader review of the Gambling Act of 2019. Ministers have been asked to examine the structural transformation of the market, where online casino gaming has emerged as its largest vertical. Parliament previously considered a package of amendments submitted by Sports and Tourism Minister, Rudolf Huliak, which proposed a significant tightening of market controls and restrictions on gambling licences. President Peter Pellegrini vetoed the amendments, but indicated that he would support a more comprehensive reform programme focused on strengthening consumer protections. Against this unsettled legislative backdrop, URHH’s new leadership has placed greater emphasis on evidence-led regulation. Its research partnership with FMK UCM will help inform future decisions concerning high-risk games, digital gambling mechanics and the protection of younger consumers.