On October 24, 2025, Belgium’s gambling regulator, the Commission des jeux de hasard (CJH), issued a stern warning regarding its critical underfunding and lack of operational autonomy, which threaten its capacity to effectively oversee the burgeoning gaming sector in the country. The CJH expressed its concerns in an advisory opinion, urging lawmakers to grant the commission full control over staffing and financial resources to restore robust regulatory oversight.
The CJH’s advisory was adopted by a narrow majority of five-to-four, in response to a proposed government draft law that seeks to enhance player protection and tighten regulatory supervision. While the CJH acknowledges the positive intent of the draft law, it highlights that the measures would fall short unless there is comprehensive structural reform. The commission stressed the necessity of having the independence to strategically and operationally manage its staffing to match the levels seen in neighboring countries with similar regulatory responsibilities.
The CJH pointed out that bureaucratic hurdles within the Ministry of Justice have significantly impeded its hiring processes, resulting in a workforce smaller than 15 years ago, despite an expanded regulatory mandate. As of July 2025, the commission had only 32.8 full-time staff, a decrease from 39.3 in 2023. With an authorized structure allowing for 57 positions, the CJH estimates that around 80 employees are necessary to fulfill its statutory obligations effectively.
Recruitment delays have become excessively protracted, with the process taking up to five months for control officers and as long as two and a half years for data analysts. The commission described the current staffing situation as “unsustainable” and more dire than it was two years previously. A comparison with international counterparts underscores the severity of under-resourcing, with the Netherlands planning to have 230 staff by 2026, Germany 145, France over 80, and the UK 413. Even Denmark’s regulator employs 130 people, whereas Belgium operates with fewer than 40.
This warning from the CJH comes amid increasing public concern over gambling-related harms. A study commissioned by the government revealed that 53% of Belgians aged 18–30 had gambled despite recent restrictions, and 28% had utilized unlicensed platforms. In parallel, Belgium’s largest licensed gambling operators, represented by BAGO, have called for Brussels to unify harm-prevention regulations across the EU but have opposed a pan-European gambling license, suggesting it could lead to a regulatory “race to the bottom.”
The draft law includes proposals to double the number of police officers assigned to the CJH from four to eight and to establish a legal minimum of ten control officers. However, the commission cautioned that legally fixing employee numbers could be counterproductive, potentially freezing staffing levels and inhibiting future expansion. The CJH emphasized that, rather than working with legal quotas, it should have the freedom to manage its personnel policy and recruitment process independently.
Additionally, the CJH identified operational gaps, noting that simply increasing the number of inspectors would be ineffective if the sanctions department, currently staffed by only a single part-time employee, lacks the capacity to enforce compliance.
Despite being funded through annual contributions from operators, the CJH faces restrictions on using its funds. The commission’s dedicated fund, which holds over €50 million, cannot be used for salaries and ongoing expenses due to government-imposed limitations. Although the commission supports a proposal to index operator contributions, it argues that a more significant overhaul is necessary, as its financial reliance on ministerial approval undermines its independence. As long as the commission’s budget and staffing decisions remain under the Ministry’s control, its autonomy will remain largely theoretical.
Amidst these concerns, some stakeholders argue for a different perspective. They suggest that while increased funding and autonomy are important, it is equally crucial to focus on collaboration with other regulatory bodies across Europe to share best practices and resources, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of gambling regulation without solely relying on national resources.
In conclusion, Belgium’s gambling regulator is at a critical juncture. The need for operational autonomy and sufficient funding is evident, yet achieving this requires careful navigation of bureaucratic and political landscapes. The ongoing discourse around these issues underscores the complexity of regulating a rapidly evolving gaming industry, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between national controls and international cooperation.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
4.5/5666 Gambit Casino
15 EUR FREE
