TLDR Norway released a non-regulatory four-year plan (2026–2029) focused on preventing and treating problem gambling, with no changes to betting limits or age restrictions. Children and young adults aged 9 to 25 are the primary focus, along with athletes, people in custody, and those with neurodevelopmental conditions. Schools, youth sports clubs, and social media platforms will be used for educational outreach and digital prevention campaigns. Treatment services are expanding, including chat support for younger users and remote telephone therapy without GP referrals. State-owned monopoly Norsk Tipping faces growing public criticism over operational errors, incorrect lottery payouts, and fines.
The Norwegian government has released a four-year action plan aimed at preventing and treating problem gambling across the country. The plan runs from 2026 to 2029 and was officially published on March 27.
Unlike many gambling reform efforts in Europe, this plan is entirely non-regulatory. The government will not change existing betting limits, age restrictions, or access to legal gaming platforms.
Instead, the focus is on expanding treatment options and launching public education campaigns. Officials said the plan prioritizes protecting vulnerable populations over defending commercial interests.
Children and young adults between the ages of 9 and 25 are the main target group. Recent studies have linked teenagers aged 12 to 17 with gambling-style activities in online video games, such as purchasing loot boxes and skins.
The plan also covers several other at-risk groups. These include athletes, individuals in custody, people with neurodevelopmental conditions, and those outside of education or full-time employment.
People with past gambling problems will also receive focused support under the new framework.
Schools and Social Media Targeted for Prevention Campaigns
Several government agencies will share responsibility for carrying out the plan. These include Lotteritilsynet, Medietilsynet, and Helsedirektoratet, along with the Norwegian Film Institute and voluntary organizations.