This year’s Juegos Miami conference, taking place at the Biltmore Hotel from May 30 – June 1, is to give delegates insights into issues surrounding responsible gambling.
Susan O’Leary, CEO of Alderney eGambling, has stated a belief that adaptation and implementation of social responsibility policies will go a long way to changing the negative narrative surrounding gambling, ahead of taking her place at the conference.
As part of the agenda, O’Leary is to speak on the responsible gambling panel, and ahead of the event has been discussing the need for governments to be involved in the social responsibility aspects of gambling: “Responsible gambling is a global issue and so in context, it’s a national issue not just provincial in Latin American countries, for sure.
“There are many factors to think about in terms of creating a robust policy, from harm minimisation through to the education of players and research into gambling addiction.
“I spend a lot of time attending industry conferences around the globe as it is imperative to have these opportunities to meet industry and regulatory peers to discuss issues and trends in the sector. It is key that we all keep up to date and on top of any developments.
“Independent research is important but I find meeting up with the industry at these events is by far the most beneficial, especially at a high calibre event like Juegos Miami.
“Personal relationships and expanding the industry’s network are so important and it is easier to work with and cooperate with people one has built a rapport with, another reason why these face-to-face events are so key.”
O’Leary, who heads up Alderney Gambling working alongside the Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC) in the Channel Islands, is to bring experience on creating programmes for victims and working with governments on social responsibility coordination.
Commenting on lessons learned in the Channel Islands, she said: “The AGCC works closely with their licensees to help ensure responsible gambling practices are adopted and implemented. We work with lots of other jurisdictions through IAGR, GREFE and otherwise, I’d like to think the AGCC’s framework is the benchmark for social responsibility policy.
“In terms of deregulation possibilities in Latin America, I do believe a robust social responsibility commitment is key, but I’m not sure it will lead to deregulation. As you can see by the UKGC’s current actions the opposite is happening presently. However, it may prevent further regulation.”
