Norway Launches New Problem Gambling Plan

Norway has launched a new four-year action plan focused on problem gambling, with prevention and treatment at the center. The programme runs from 2026 to 2029 and keeps the focus on public health, youth protection, and early support rather than new gambling restrictions.

Good to Know

• The plan does not change gambling laws, age limits, or betting caps.
• Children and young people aged 9 to 25 are the main target group.
• Norway will expand helpline access, treatment services, and national research.

Norway Puts Prevention Ahead of New Restrictions

The Norwegian government said the main goal is to reduce the number of people who develop gambling problems. Officials also said protection of vulnerable groups must come before commercial interests.

Young people sit at the heart of the plan. Authorities pointed to research linking those aged 12 to 17 with gambling-style mechanics in video games, including loot boxes and skins. Because of that, schools, youth clubs, and sports clubs will be used to deliver education on gambling risks and digital game features that can blur the line between gaming and betting.

Several other groups are also included. The plan highlights athletes, people in custody, people with neurodevelopmental conditions, those outside education or work, and people with earlier gambling problems.

Agencies including Lotteritilsynet, Medietilsynet, and Helsedirektoratet will split core responsibilities. The Norwegian Film Institute and voluntary groups will also help with outreach tied to gaming culture and support services.

Support services are getting more attention too. Hjelpelinjen, the national gambling helpline, will be expanded with better access and chat options aimed at younger users. Norway will also keep offering free remote treatment programmes, usually run over 12 weeks by phone and without a referral from a general practitioner.

Wider Public Health Focus

The plan also aims to improve detection of early warning signs. Parents, teachers, coaches, healthcare workers, prison staff, probation staff, employers, and bank workers are all expected to receive tools or training.

Inside the prison system, authorities want stronger awareness of gambling harm and better support for inmates, many of whom build up debt while in custody. At the same time, dialogue between Helsedirektoratet and regional competence centres known as KORUS is expected to grow so local services can respond faster.

Research will also expand. Lotteritilsynet and Medietilsynet will continue surveys on gambling and gaming participation, while a new national survey will focus directly on gambling and gaming harm.

The government also wants closer work with licensed operators through an annual forum on responsible gambling. Banks and financial institutions are expected to play a bigger role as well, especially in efforts to limit payments to unlicensed foreign gambling sites and spot customers showing signs of gambling harm.

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