Two Dutch lawmakers call for repeal of online gambling legalization

Two Dutch parliament members, Diederik van Dijk (SGP) and Derk Boswijk (CDA), have submitted a motion aimed at reversing the 2021 legalization of online gambling in the Netherlands.

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The motion, titled “Gambled and Lost,” outlines six proposals intended to amend the country’s gambling laws, with the most significant recommendation being a complete ban on online gambling.

The MPs argued that the Remote Gambling Act (KOA) has had severe “unpleasant side effects,” leading to widespread social issues, including a sharp rise in gambling addiction and related mental health problems.

They emphasized the risks to young adults, many of whom they say are “trapped behind their screens” and losing significant amounts of money.