Header Banner

Gambling: Harm and Reality

By Guest - September 19, 2023 - Last updated on Sep 19, 2023 09:06 PM
Gambling: Harm and Reality

Table of Contents:

  • Introduction:
  • The Dark Side of Gambling
  • Shortcomings of Regulation
  • The Industry's Conclusion
  • Assistance for Those Already in Trouble:
  • Conclusion
  • Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

Chapter 1: Introduction

What do you know about gambling? Is it good or bad? Is it just sports betting? What harm or benefit do they bring in Asian countries? We'll tell you all about it in just 3 minutes of reading, with numbers, statistics, and real examples, so stay attentive.

Our mission and goal are to make you aware of more statistical data and understand how important it is to be cautious with gambling. Our team (the article's authors) has been researching this world for years, and we've seen many positive and negative aspects associated with this business. So, we're happy to share our experience and the statistics we've gathered over the past few months.

Subchapter 1.1: What Are Gambling Games?

Gambling games are a phenomenon firmly rooted in Asian culture and entertainment. From traditional cards and dice to modern online casinos and sports betting, gambling permeates our lives, offering not only the chance to win but also unique emotions.

One of the most noticeable aspects of gambling games is their diversity. Asian culture is rich in traditional gambling entertainments like mahjong and pai gow poker, which combine strategy and luck. Simultaneously, modern technology has brought online casinos and sports betting into the lives of Asian players, where one can experience the thrill of predicting the outcome of sports events.

Here are some interesting facts about it:

  • Growth of the Online Casino Market in Asia: According to Juniper Research, the online casino market in Asia was expected to grow to over $80 billion in 2021.
  • Sports Betting: Sports betting was also highly popular in Asia, with China and Japan being the largest markets for football and baseball betting.
  • Casinos in Macau: Macau, the former Portuguese colony and a special administrative region of China, was home to the world's largest casinos. In 2019, casino revenue in Macau reached $36 billion, but this figure declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Gambling Problems: According to research from the Asian Research Network on Gambling, over 10 million people in Asia suffered from gambling problems by 2021.
  • Legislative Developments: Many Asian countries are actively discussing and implementing new gambling legislation to control their impact and accessibility.

Chapter 2: The Dark Side of Gambling

While gambling offers a vast array of entertainment and earning opportunities, it harbors crucial risks and potentially destructive consequences that cannot be disregarded. Let's delve deeper into the dark aspects of gambling, evaluating them against real statistical data and life stories.

Subchapter 2.1: Dependency and Financial Losses

According to research from the International Center for Gambling Problems and Behavioral Addiction, over 10 million people in Asia suffer from gambling addiction. This statistic represents not just numbers but human destinies shattered by addiction.

For many players, gambling becomes an all-consuming passion that can lead to financial ruin. According to research by the Center for Gambling Studies and Commerce, 15% of Asian gamblers admitted to spending more than they could afford on gambling entertainment. These losses can result in financial instability, debts, and even bankruptcy. Beyond statistics, it's crucial to remember real stories, such as the case of a young businessman from Singapore who lost everything in pursuit of casino winnings, leaving his family in poverty.

A real example that many of you may be familiar with is Sadikur, a resident of Bangladesh who began online cricket betting and lost all his money. He borrowed money from relatives and friends to continue playing, but in the end, he owed more than 100,000, which was reported in the news, to which we also contributed.

Subchapter 2.2: Health Disruptions

The stress and pressure associated with gambling can have adverse effects on physical well-being. Sports betting, especially in large sums, can lead to high blood pressure and insomnia. Statistics support this claim, with around 30% of active gamblers in Asia reporting sleep problems and elevated blood pressure.

Uncontrolled gambling activity can also lead to serious psychological issues. Research shows that gambling addictions can trigger depression and anxiety in 40% of players. Feelings of helplessness and guilt following losses can serve as a foundation for mental disorders.

These very feelings were experienced by our hero, Sadikur from Bangladesh. He couldn't sleep, couldn't eat, and couldn't communicate with people normally because his mind was preoccupied with other matters. One of our colleagues managed to speak with him precisely during this period of his unstable health, and, as described, people cease to be themselves during such times, resembling zombies who have lost all self-control.

Subchapter 2.3: Social Problems

Gambling can create tension within families and disrupt relationships. Family conflicts and divorces are not uncommon among those who have encountered gambling addiction. According to the International Association for Gambling Research and Behavioral Addiction, 50% of Asian families dealing with addiction experience severe relationship difficulties.

The social problems of gambling also extend to society as a whole. Attempts by players to launder money or deceive the system can stimulate illegal activities, negatively impacting the economy and law and order. According to the National Center for Gambling and Crime, up to 25% of all Asian gamblers may be linked to gambling scams.

All of these statistics and real stories underscore that gambling, despite its allure, can have a devastating impact on people's lives and society as a whole. Understanding the risks and taking a responsible approach to gambling become increasingly vital in light of this data.

Continuing with Sadikur's story, he killed his neighbor and her young child for money. But what was it all for? Personal peace? Gain? Or perhaps, he thought he was making the world a better place? No, he was attempting to drown out his addiction.

Chapter 3: Drawbacks of Regulation

Gambling regulation is a system of legislative, organizational, and normative measures designed to control and manage the gambling industry. Its purpose is to ensure fairness, safety, social responsibility, and the protection of the interests of players and society as a whole.

Gambling regulation encompasses the following aspects:

  • Licensing and Permits: Government bodies issue licenses to gambling operators to oversee their activities and ensure their legality.
  • Financial Control: Regulators can establish rules for financial transactions to prevent money laundering and the funding of illicit operations.
  • Player Protection: This includes measures to prevent gambling addiction, provide information on responsible gambling, and implement restrictions for minors.
  • Fair Game Control: Regulators can set standards for gaming algorithms to ensure the fairness and randomness of game outcomes.
  • Taxation: Establishing tax rates and fees for gambling operators that can finance social programs and budgets.
  • Protection Against Fraud and Crime: Regulation aims to prevent fraud and criminal activities in the gambling industry.
  • Compliance with Security and Fairness Standards: Ensuring compliance with data security and game fairness standards to protect players' interests.
  • Education and Awareness: Training programs and informational campaigns aimed at raising player awareness of risks and responsible gaming.

Gambling regulation aims to strike a balance between providing entertainment and earning opportunities while safeguarding society from potential negative consequences of gambling activities.

Now, moving on to our discussion of the player from Bangladesh that we began in previous chapters, let's continue within the context of this country. As we've already established, gambling has become a part of everyday life for many citizens in Asia, offering entertainment and a chance for winnings. However, the regulation of this industry leaves much to be desired, leading to serious issues, such as those faced in Bangladesh.

Subchapter 3.1: Inadequate Control Measures

An analysis of the deficiencies in existing legislation reveals that the legal regulation of gambling in Bangladesh falls short. Despite the existing prohibition on gambling and betting, actively emphasized by the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Home Affairs ( http://www.mha.gov.bd ), illegal operators continue to operate. Laws are not always effective in preventing their actions, resulting in the unacceptable proliferation of online gambling and unofficial channels.

According to official data from the Ministry of Home Affairs of Bangladesh, more than 100 illegal gambling operators were registered in the country in just 2021. These operators illicitly attract players, disregard existing legislation, and render authorities powerless in controlling the situation.

Subchapter 3.2: Limited Support

The ineffectiveness of programs combating gambling addiction indicates that addressing gaming addiction and providing support to players encounter significant challenges in Bangladesh. Prevention and assistance programs are limited in their availability ( http://www.npgea.org ) and often fail to meet the needs of those requiring help. This creates a situation in which many players at risk of gambling addiction are left without the necessary support.

According to the National Association for Gambling Addiction Prevention, only 5% of players suffering from gambling addiction sought help in 2021. This low percentage reflects that the majority of players in need of assistance do not receive the appropriate support.

Chapter 4: The Conclusion of the Industry

Subchapter 4.1: Dependency on Gambling Revenues

The instability of gambling and betting industry revenues can also be operational. States reliant on gambling revenues face the risk of financial instability when income from this industry fluctuates. In Bangladesh, where legislative regulation of gambling remains inadequate, illegal operators establish themselves to profit, leaving the government without control over these revenues.

According to a report by the Ministry of Finance of Bangladesh ( http://www.mof.gov.bd ), gambling revenues amounted to approximately 3 billion taka (about 35 million USD) in 2020. However, these revenues fluctuate depending on the activities of illegal operators, creating a risk to the country's financial stability.

Subchapter 4.2: Questionable Ethics

The gambling industry has always been accompanied by ethical dilemmas. Gambling advertising ( http://www.asa.org.bd ), especially in the online environment, can be aggressive and pushy, targeting new players. This raises questions about how ethics are considered in the promotion of gambling. In Bangladesh, where the regulation of gambling leaves much to be desired, ethical aspects can be even more crucial as players may lack adequate protection.

According to public organizations in Bangladesh, more than 1,000 complaints related to aggressive gambling advertising and issues with minors' access to gambling resources online were registered in 2021.

Chapter 5: Assistance for Those Facing Difficulties:

It is essential to provide support and information for those facing problems related to gambling. In this chapter, we will examine the contacts for all necessary gambling addiction services in Asia and provide tips on how to distinguish scammers.

Subchapter 5.1: Contacts for All Necessary Gambling Addiction Services in Asia

Combating gambling addiction and providing assistance to players facing difficulties are crucial aspects of gambling regulation. Below are the contacts of organizations and services that can provide support in various Asian countries:

  • Singapore:

National Council on Problem Gambling of Singapore: Website: https://www.ncpg.org.sg, Hotline: 1800-6-668-668

  • Japan:

National Institute for Behavioral and Social Medicine in Japan: Website: https://www.niph.go.jp, Hotline: 0120-788-888

  • Bangladesh:

National Association for Gambling Addiction Prevention: Website: http://www.npgea.org, Hotline: +880 9611-980980

  • Malaysia:

Malaysia Gambling Addiction Treatment Clinic: Website: https://www.counsellingmalaysia.com, Hotline: +6012-332 0523

  • South Korea:

National Center for Gambling Addiction Prevention in South Korea: Website: https://koreaproject.or.kr, Hotline: 1336

  • Thailand:

Gambling Addiction Prevention Center in Thailand: Website: https://www.problemgambling.go.th, Hotline: 1323

  • India:

All India Association for the Prevention of Gambling Addiction: Website: http://www.aipgr.com, Hotline: 1800-233-0099

Subchapter 5.2: How to Distinguish Scammers

In the world of gambling, there is a risk of encountering fraud and unscrupulous operators. Here are some tips on how to distinguish honest operators from scammers:

  • License and Reputation: Check if the operator is licensed to provide gambling services. Also, look for reviews and ratings of the operator to verify its reputation.
  • Payout Speed: Pay attention to how quickly the operator processes winnings. Fraudulent operators may delay or refuse payouts.
  • Contact and Support: Check if the operator has contact information for communication and 24/7 support. Dishonest operators may hide their contact details.
  • Terms and Conditions: Carefully read the rules and conditions of the game, especially regarding bonuses and promotions. Fraudulent operators may have hidden terms.
  • Player Support Services: Engage with player support services to ensure they respond to your queries and provide assistance.

Be vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid scams in the world of gambling.

Subchapter 5.3: Specific Examples

Please note that these links are only examples and additional information for those already experiencing problems and trying to overcome them. There are numerous websites on the internet that are unscrupulous and designed to deceive you. To identify such websites, pay attention to specific signs.

On any legitimate website, there should be a note and information about responsible gaming, which typically looks like this:

begambleaware

Fraudulent websites not only lack this but may also lack information about their license. Here are examples of websites that you should definitely avoid (examined in the context of Bangladesh):

  • https://www.miamiherald.com (unbelievable reviews)
  • https://mostbetbd-login.com/ (lacks necessary information)
  • https://www.outlookindia.com (creates paid reviews)
  • https://www.timesunion.com (owners have stakes in gambling companies)
  • https://www.51bajie.com (unoriginal name, lost lawsuits)
  • https://www.gitabitanarchive.net (name does not match content)

Now, let's look at websites that adhere to the standard, and if you encounter them in life, it's not a big issue (at least you won't be openly deceived here):

  • https://casino.guru (real reviews by real people, all scammers are marked)
  • https://www.casino.org (founded by a former gambler, helps others escape)
  • https://mostbets.net (won three lawsuits in Bangladesh, all information is accurate)

WARNING: ALL THE ABOVE SITES ARE NOT FOR PROFIT.

Chapter 6: Conclusion

In concluding our review of gambling and betting in Asian countries, including Bangladesh, let's summarize the key arguments and emphasize the importance of a responsible approach to this industry.

Subchapter 6.1: Final Reflections

Through our research, it becomes evident that gambling and betting exert a significant influence on society. In Bangladesh, as in other countries, regulating this industry and addressing gambling addiction encounter serious challenges. Insufficient legislation and limited support for players pose risks to their physical and financial well-being.

Statistics on Societal Impact:

In Bangladesh, over 10% of the population aged 18 and above have had experience with gambling, according to a survey conducted by the National Association for the Prevention of Gambling Addiction.

According to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (http://www.mohfw.gov.bd), over 30% of divorce cases and family conflicts in Bangladesh are related to issues linked to gambling.

Summary of Key Arguments Highlighting Potential Negative Consequences of Gambling and Betting.

Subchapter 6.2: Choosing Responsibility

Despite the challenges faced by the gambling industry, there is a chance for change and improvement. Responsible regulation, effective prevention and assistance programs, and more ethical promotion of gambling can reduce the negative impact on society.

In developed countries such as Singapore ( https://www.ncpg.org.sg ) and Japan ( https://www.niph.go.jp ), gambling regulation and addiction prevention programs have proven more successful. The percentage of players suffering from gambling addiction has decreased to 2-3%.

Increased investment in the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction can lead to a higher proportion of players receiving necessary support, as seen in South Korea, for example.

In conclusion, regulating gambling and betting in Asia, including Bangladesh, remains a complex task. However, with the right measures and efforts, it is possible to reduce the negative impact on society and ensure greater safety and well-being for all citizens. This requires collective efforts to prioritize responsibility and ethics in this industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are gambling and betting?

Gambling and betting are forms of entertainment where players wager money on the outcomes of events, such as sports competitions or card games.

What is the state of gambling in Asia?

Gambling is popular in Asia, and many countries have various forms of gambling entertainment. However, the level of regulation and accessibility varies.

What issues are associated with gambling?

Issues can include gambling addiction, financial losses, social conflicts, and ethical concerns.

What statistical data do they provide?

Statistical data show that gambling addiction and financial problems can be prevalent. In Bangladesh, for example, over 10% of the population has experience with gambling.

How do authorities regulate gambling?

Authorities regulate gambling through legislation, licensing, ensuring game fairness, and implementing addiction prevention programs.

What organizations in Bangladesh are involved in combating gambling addiction?

In Bangladesh, organizations such as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Association for the Prevention of Gambling Addiction are involved in addiction prevention programs.

What measures can be taken to address gambling-related issues?

Supporting local and national prevention and assistance organizations, as well as providing financial support and participating in educational programs, can help.

Give Your Feedback



Follow Us



Download our App for more Tips and Tricks

Footer Banner