In 2023, Romania collected 45 million euros for combating gambling addiction, but spent only 1,600 euros, shows an analysis.

Gambling addiction is becoming an increasingly serious problem in Romania, especially among young people, while the state collected over 45 million euros last year to combat this phenomenon. The National Office for Gambling (ONJN) received contributions of 210 million lei (approximately 42.2 million euros) in 2024, but only used 1,620 euros for a workshop dedicated to social workers. Although there is a 'Responsible Gaming' department, it has operated with only three employees and has not conducted information campaigns or educational programs. A government decision in 2023 directed 70% of the collected funds to the state budget, leaving little money for addiction prevention. Additionally, thousands of illegal sites are accessible, and online payments to gambling platforms are on the rise, exacerbating the situation.