German court backs GGL in favour of gambling streaming ban

Overseas content streamers could be banned for promoting unlicensed gambling services to German audiences after a decision by the Saxony-Anhalt Higher Administrative Court. 

The decision was in support of a previous legal challenge raised by the Joint Gambling Authority of the Länder (GGL) in connection to a well-known German streamer based abroad, who was engaging with slot games unlicensed in Germany. 

As per the court’s statement: “The use is covered by the principle of territoriality under international law, as the content created in German is aimed at the German-speaking area. It is therefore mainly addressed to viewers who access the streaming content from Germany.”

There is also a risk posed to minors due to the significant portion they often represent from stream audiences. Streaming can be used as a direct form of advertising, and therefore the GGL believes it is a particular risk when it comes to player protection. 

GGL Board member Ronald Benter added: “The decision has a signal effect! In the future, the GGL will take even stronger action against streamers based abroad. This is required in particular by the protection of players and minors due to the special dangers that are imminent with streaming.”

At the moment there is an ongoing study led by the GGL on the effects of gambling advertising on the public, which is expected to conclude in 2026. 

Still ongoing, the study will primarily focus on whether vulnerable groups are being influenced by not only individual ads, such as TV commercials and social media advertising, but also the inclusion of customer bonuses and discounts. 

The GGL has also kicked off July under a new chairmanship in the face of Reiner Moser, who is a Minister of the Bundesland of Baden-Württemberg.