First session of Coordination Body for games of chance regulation

The first session of the Coordination Body for the protection and enhancement of public interest in the field of organising games of chance was held today, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister for Political System, Judiciary, and Anti-Corruption Momo Koprivica.

During the session, the Rules of Procedure of this body were adopted, defining a precise framework for work and task execution, as well as the citizens' right to submit petitions to the Coordination Body to detect all abuses, irregularities, and omissions. A clear procedure for handling petitions was outlined to to create a broader front for the overall fight against lawlessness.

The Coordination Body invites citizens to utilize this opportunity and pledges to develop a partnership with them.

During the two-hour meeting, key challenges facing the state regarding games of chance were identified. Additionally, the initial steps and duties of relevant institutions, individual members, and the Coordination Body as a whole were defined. Regarding betting facilities near schools, which are numerous, Deputy Prime Minister Koprivica stated that a review of each case will be conducted, and potential measures may range from revoking licenses to initiating criminal proceedings.

Furthermore, Koprivica announced plans to introduce an online monitoring system in the coming period, which would record internet transactions in real-time, allowing players to verify their legality and whether their deposits have been registered with the competent authority. Such a system would detect suspicious transactions and enable control and calculation of fees paid.

Members of the Coordination Body presented constructive analyses, shedding light on various aspects of the inherited problems resulting from years, even decades, of systemic neglect of this area, which led to numerous negative social, health, legal, and budgetary consequences.

The Coordination Body's task will be to establish and implement mechanisms to protect public interest, especially that of minors. Work will be intensified through general sessions, the formation of operational teams, and the undertaking of concrete activities.