Gaming as seen from a service point of view : the legal perspective

Abstract

Internet gambling companies initially consisted of a small group of companies that have succeeded in sustaining profit beyond the so-called 'Internet bubble'. It was only a few years ago, that operators started financially investing in 'dot.com companies'. These corporations were nothing more than a business plan predicting future profits and services in correlation with the anticipated boost of internet access throughout the world. The ever-expanding accessibility of high-speed internet, mobile communications, and interactive television has led to increasing opportunities for gambling and, in particular cross-border gambling services. The development of gaming, social attitudes, increased mobility and the competitive threat from the internet gaming means that it is now time for European legislators and regulators to review gaming legislation, with a view to developing realistic regulations. Comiuunication technology has mushroomed all over Europe and world-wide with limited support from many governments throughout the world in the form of regulation which is actually binding and effectual. In many of the EU Member States, gambling is strictly controlled by national governments. The so-called 'legal gambling monopolies' exist in several countries. This means that gambling is regulated by those who are providing it. Simultaneously the monopolistic structure of gambling is being questioned, both on the national and international area, due to an increased pressure of general deregulation and harmonization within the European Union.