TLDR
- Spain unveiled its Safe Gambling Program 2026–2030 at a meeting of the Advisory Council on Safe Gambling in Madrid
- The program shifts from a “responsible gambling” model to a broader “safe gambling” approach focused on consumers
- It is built on three priorities: analysis and diagnosis, prevention, and participant protection
- The strategy includes 6 general objectives and 24 specific measures with a flexible multi-year structure
- There is a special focus on protecting vulnerable groups, especially youth, backed by scientific research
Spain has officially launched its Safe Gambling Program 2026–2030. The new strategy aims to improve player protection and reduce harm linked to gaming over the next five years.
The program was revealed during a meeting of the Advisory Council on Safe Gambling. The session took place at the headquarters of the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling, known as the DGOJ, in Madrid.
Mikel Arana, the Director General, chaired the meeting. The council includes members from government agencies, universities, health organizations, and the gaming industry.
The strategy follows changes made to Spain’s 2011 Gambling Act in both 2020 and 2023. These amendments laid the groundwork for the new direction in regulation.
One of the biggest changes is a shift in language and approach. Spain is moving away from the term “responsible gambling” and toward what it calls “safe gambling.”
This is more than a name change. The new model puts the consumer at the center of policy. It places more responsibility on the system itself rather than on individual players.
Three Core Priorities Drive the Strategy
The program is organized around three main areas. The first is analysis and diagnosis of gambling-related risks. The second is prevention and promotion of safe gaming habits. The third is direct protection of participants.
Within those areas, the strategy includes six general objectives. It also lays out 24 specific measures that will guide implementation over the coming years.
The framework is designed to be flexible. Spain can adjust or add new measures as trends shift, especially in the digital space. The DGOJ holds the authority to make those changes with input from the Advisory Council.
The digital side of gambling is a key concern. Online gaming has grown rapidly, and regulators want to make sure protections keep up with how people actually gamble today.
Youth and Vulnerable Groups Are a Key Focus
A major part of the program targets vulnerable populations. Young people are a top priority, with specific steps aimed at limiting their exposure to harmful gambling behavior.
The strategy also leans heavily on science. A dedicated research section will focus on gambling disorder prevention. The goal is to make sure all policies are built on solid evidence.
Research grants were also discussed during the meeting. These were awarded under the 2025 call for projects on preventing gambling-related harm.
The inclusion of funded research shows that Spain wants data to drive its decisions. This is part of a broader trend among European regulators looking for evidence-based policy.
The program does not lock Spain into a rigid plan. Its multi-year structure gives room to respond to new technology and changing player habits.
The DGOJ will continue to oversee the rollout. Updates and adjustments are expected as the gaming landscape evolves through 2030.
Spain’s Advisory Council confirmed its support for the direction of the program during the Madrid meeting. The 24 measures are now set to be rolled out in phases over the next several years.
