Groundbreaking Ruling on Gambling Blocking Orders: Federal Administrative Court Reshapes Internet Blocking Standards

Legislation

Groundbreaking Ruling on Gambling Blocking Orders: Federal Administrative Court Reshapes Internet Blocking Standards

Friday 21 de March 2025 / 12:00

2 minutos de lectura

(Berlin).- On March 19, 2024, the Federal Administrative Court (BVerwG) issued a landmark ruling on the applicability of blocking orders under the 2021 State Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021). This article comments updates on the matter and how can the treaty be applied in Germany.

Groundbreaking Ruling on Gambling Blocking Orders: Federal Administrative Court Reshapes Internet Blocking Standards

In alignment with the Koblenz Higher Administrative Court (case no.: 6 A 10998/23), the BVerwG determined that Section 9 (1) Sentence 3 No. 5 of the treaty cannot be applied to internet service providers (access providers) in any practical scenario.

Despite this ruling, the Joint Gambling Authority of the German States (GGL) maintains its ongoing efforts to combat illegal online gambling, unaffected by this decision.

Since 2022, the GGL has shifted focus from internet service providers to host providers, a strategy that has successfully blocked numerous domains. Approximately 930 domains are currently inaccessible in Germany, with an average of 60 new domains added monthly.

In light of previous court decisions, the GGL has emphasized the need for rapid adjustments to the gambling regulations, including updates to the IP blocking standard. Preparations for these changes are already underway and are expected to address challenges such as liability and the inclusion of advertising for illegal gambling within the scope of the standard.

The GGL remains committed to improving regulations and implementing effective measures against illegal gambling, ensuring a more secure and regulated digital environment.

Categoría:Legislation

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País: Germany

Región: EMEA