39 PUBLIC GAMING INTERNATIONAL • JULY/AUGUST 2024 11 Responsibility and Sustainability at heart of EL activities At the core of national lotteries as EL members lies a common heritage of responsible games for public good. In 2023, EL continued its efforts to promote responsible gaming. Thanks to its Support Programme, by the end of the year, all EL Members successfully achieved independent Responsible Gaming certification, or a commitment level. This achievement is unique in the sector. Significantly upgraded EL Sustainability Guidelines in 2023 have strengthened the lotteries’ commitment across broader topics. By the end of the year, over 40 percent of EL members had signed the voluntary EL Environmental Initiative, also benefiting from the newly introduced Support Programme. The fourth European class of WILL - Women’s Initiative in Lottery Leadership - welcomed a record number of participating female mentees in 2023 (11 in total). For the first time, four male colleagues stepped forward as mentors. WILL was also recognised externally as a 2023 finalist for the DEI award from the European Society of Association Executives. Advocating & promoting the interest of EL Members In 2023, EL actively engaged in policy debates at both supranational level and, when asked by a member, at national level. The Association continued to advocate for the sustainable lottery model that it so importantly promotes and defends. For example, EL welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of its resolution on ‘’Consumer Protection in Online Video Games,’’ but called for the clear separation to be maintained between gambling and gaming. As part of strategic advocacy efforts at EU level, EL, together with the Public Affairs Working Group developed a series of position papers on key topics, namely, consumer protection and responsible gaming, taxonomy, videogames & Web3 and sport integrity. EL continued to address regulatory challenges, such as gambling advertising restrictions, by updating the Antwerp Resolution in 2023, and emphasising a risk-based approach to gambling regulation. Forward Thinking With its new strategy and continued dedication to responsible gaming, sustainability, and innovation, EL is well-positioned to lead the lottery sector towards a responsible and sustainable future. The Association grew successfully in 2023, as a vibrant community with its own unique culture and a profound mission: for the benefit of society. The work continues into 2024 to further show the importance of the sustainable lottery model, and to fight illegal gambling activities. The visibility of EL members’ positive impact as well as to protect the players with the highest standards towards responsible gaming will also be showcased. Visit european-lotteries.org for further information about the services provided by EL. Direct link to the EL Annual Report in its entirety: https://www.european-lotteries. org/system/files/2024-06/EL%20 Annual%20Report%202023_ FINAL.pdf Caption: A spectacular firework display opened the EL Congress in Šibenik in 2023
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