Spain Invests €1.05 Million in Gambling Addiction Research
The Spanish Directorate General for Gambling Regulation (DGOJ) is launching a €1.05 million grant program to fund research into gambling-related disorders in 2025. Announced in the Official State Gazette on May 17th, the initiative aims to support scientific studies that deepen the understanding of gambling risks and inform national policy.
This grant is part of Spain’s broader plan, led by the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030, to protect public health and consumers. Applications are open until June 18, 2025, and funded projects must be completed by June 30, 2026. Public and private research institutions in Spain, as well as non-profit groups with valid cooperation agreements, are eligible to apply.
Research Priorities Outlined
Applicants must propose studies within one of six defined priority areas. These include:
- Early detection of problematic gambling behaviors.
- Research into the social and psychological effects of gambling.
- Analyses of gender-specific risks.
- Evaluation of the overlap between gambling and video games, particularly among younger demographics.
The program also encourages research into how structural aspects of gambling products, such as the design of betting platforms, poker mechanics, or lottery features, can influence behavior and potentially drive harmful patterns.
The DGOJ’s initiative will support academic and scientific projects in 2025 focused on understanding the risks associated with gambling, especially among vulnerable populations. This demonstrates Spain’s commitment to not only regulating the gambling sector but also actively funding solutions to mitigate its social impact.
Enforcement Measures Demonstrate Commitment
The 2025 grant announcement follows significant enforcement efforts. In May, the DGOJ fined 14 unlicensed gambling operators a total of €77.4 million, including one €10 million fine. All were banned from operating in Spain for two years. These actions highlight the DGOJ’s dedication to enforcing the law and protecting consumers.
The grant program adheres to the regulations established by Regulatory Order CSM/472/2022, which provides the legal basis for funding the research. The DGOJ seeks projects that offer valuable findings to help improve policies and reduce the harms caused by gambling.
International Cooperation and Industry Dialogue
The Spanish gambling regulator is also collaborating with international partners to improve regulations and share insights. Recently, the DGOJ joined a forum led by the UK Gambling Commission and held its first national meeting on anti-money laundering with experts from the Spanish gambling industry.
“These efforts showcase Spain’s broader strategy: rigorous enforcement, cross-sector cooperation, and continuous support for research-based policies.”
Conclusion
Through its 2025 research grant program, Spain is demonstrating its commitment to being a proactive regulator. By supporting targeted studies, the DGOJ aims to better understand gambling-related harms and improve policies based on solid evidence.
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