Despite an increase in the minimum gambling age in Finland in 2011, underage gambling remains a prevalent issue in the country, with a recent report revealing startling statistics.
According to the Finnish Gambling 2021 report, conducted by the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, approximately 10% of Finnish youths aged 15-17 have engaged in some form of gambling in the past year.
The report also revealed that despite the legal minimum gambling age being raised from 15 to 18 in 2011, there has been no significant decrease in the number of underage gamblers in the country. This has raised concerns among authorities and experts about the effectiveness of current regulations and prevention measures in place.
The report highlighted various reasons for underage gambling, including easy access to online gambling platforms, lack of parental supervision, and peer influence. Social media and advertising were also identified as significant factors contributing to underage gambling, with many adolescents being exposed to gambling advertisements on a regular basis.
Furthermore, the report found that underage gamblers are more likely to develop gambling problems later in life, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies.
In response to these findings, Finnish authorities have vowed to strengthen regulatory measures and increase awareness campaigns to tackle underage gambling. The Finnish Gambling Authority (FFA) has also urged gambling operators to improve age verification systems and enhance responsible gambling measures to prevent minors from accessing their services.
Despite these efforts, experts suggest that a multi-faceted approach is needed to effectively address underage gambling in Finland. This includes collaboration between government agencies, gambling operators, parents, and schools to educate young people about the risks associated with gambling and promote responsible behavior.
In conclusion, the prevalence of underage gambling in Finland remains a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action. With the number of young gamblers on the rise, it is crucial for stakeholders to work together to protect vulnerable individuals and safeguard the future generation from the harms of compulsive gambling.