France has expanded its self-exclusion program for online gamblers, allowing individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from accessing any gambling platform within the country. The program, managed by the National Gambling Authority (ANJ), now includes enhanced features such as counseling services and financial planning support.
The move is part of France’s broader effort to promote responsible gambling and reduce harm. In 2023 alone, over 50,000 people registered for self-exclusion, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.
Critics argue that self-exclusion is not a comprehensive solution and have called for additional measures, such as stricter advertising regulations and mandatory deposit limits. The ANJ has pledged to evaluate the program’s effectiveness and make improvements as needed.