Player protection mechanisms in Maltese legislation : special reference to slot games

Abstract

Gambling has always been considered as a popular means of entertainment for human beings. In recent years, however, there has been an unprecedented expansion of gambling activities which has simultaneously provoked an increase in the negative consequences of gambling. The impact on the psychological health and well-being of players who try their luck at slot games has prompted the Maltese legislator to enact mechanisms, both for land-based gaming and online gaming, aimed at protecting the player from the psychosocial risks associated with gambling.

This Research Project is aimed at describing, analysing and evaluating the current player protection mechanisms propounded in Maltese legislation which ensure fair and safe gaming whilst safeguarding players from the adverse consequences of pathological gambling. The end goal is to determine the current level of protection afforded to players when playing slot games and to establish whether in practice, Maltese legislation is effectively and efficiently protecting the vulnerable player. In addition, this work seeks to analyse what could be improved for the ultimate benefit of the player whilst taking into account the reality of Malta's competitiveness in the gaming sector.