Sweden introduces flexible 10-day break to Spelpaus self-exclusion system

What happened

Sweden is reforming its established self-exclusion system, Spelpaus. Players can now take a ten-day break from gambling. This new option complements the existing choices of one, three, or six months, as well as indefinite exclusion. The Swedish Gambling Authority, Spelinspektionen, aims to cater to players' needs. This is a significant change in player protection. Perhaps this could also be a model for Germany.

Background

Spelpaus has been in effect in Sweden since 2019. It is a central register where players can voluntarily, but mandatorily for all licensed providers, self-exclude from gambling. The system was very rigid from the outset. Once excluded, there was no turning back before the exclusion period expired. This rigid rule faced continuous criticism. Many players desired more flexibility. For instance, a short cooling-off period, without having to commit to a multiple-month exclusion right away. The government has seemingly listened to these pleas from the public. For us in the editorial team, this is a clear improvement. It shows that even state authorities are capable of learning and responding to the needs of players, instead of adhering to a rigid system. At least this is happening in Sweden.

Introducing the ten-day exclusion is a compromise. It feels like a trial balloon, in my opinion. It allows players who realize they are gambling too much to take a quick break. Without the long-term consequences of a longer exclusion. It is intended to be a preventive measure. The goal is to help problem gamblers in the early stages. Before their behavior becomes entrenched. Sweden's stance on gambling is traditionally strict. The focus is clearly on protecting the population. That's why this relaxation is somewhat surprising.

Why it matters for German players

Directly, this change in Sweden has no impact on German players. Germany has its own central self-exclusion system, OASIS. OASIS is even stricter than the original Spelpaus. Once an exclusion is enacted, it cannot be lifted early. The minimum exclusion period is three months. There is no flexible ten-day exclusion in OASIS. However, German authorities could draw inspiration from this. After all, Spelpaus demonstrates that greater flexibility in self-exclusion is possible. And that it could also be well-received. At Lisa Lustich, we have been advocating for adjustments to OASIS for years. Such models from other countries are always welcome. Who knows when German politicians will finally listen to the players? Player protection is important, yes. But it must also be practical and consider the reality of players. This is far from the case with OASIS. An over-regulated system deters players. It drives them to the black market. That is the opposite of what one actually wants to achieve. This should also reach the higher echelons of the GGL. Reality is so much more complex there.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For online casinos with a German GGL license, nothing changes initially. They must continue to fully implement the OASIS system. This means that any exclusion imposed via OASIS is binding. It cannot be lifted early. There is no flexible short-term exclusion. Should Germany follow the Swedish example, it would mean an adjustment of technical systems. Online casinos would then have to offer a corresponding option in their player accounts. And synchronize it with OASIS. This would be a significant effort. But it could be worth it. Satisfied players are more likely to stay in the regulated market. That would be progress for everyone. For the player, for the provider, and ultimately for the state. Online casinos like Jackpotpiraten, Löwen Play Online, Merkur Slots, and Crazybuzzer are already connected to OASIS. They would have to adapt their interfaces. However, that is still future music. But beautiful music, isn't it? We can only hope that the GGL takes Sweden as an example here. Dialogue with the industry could be fruitful. Because the market is under high pressure. We need to become more attractive. Regulation and freedom must be in balance. This is a big challenge. But it is solvable.