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Sweden's youth gambling crisis surges 15% in four years

A generation at risk: Sweden's gambling epidemic is growing fastest among young adults. Can new laws turn the tide before more lives are disrupted?

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1 min read
The image shows a black and white drawing of a group of people sitting around a table, playing a...
The image shows a black and white drawing of a group of people sitting around a table, playing a game of gambling. On the table there are various objects, and at the bottom of the image there is some text.

Sweden's youth gambling crisis surges 15% in four years

Sweden is facing a rise in gambling-related problems, particularly among young people. Official figures show a 15% increase in issues among those under 25 between 2021 and 2025. Now, authorities are pushing for stronger protections to prevent harm among children and vulnerable groups.

Data from the Public Health Agency of Sweden reveals a steady climb in gambling problems across the country. By 2025, around 2.5% of the population—approximately 350,000 people—were affected, up from 2% in 2021. The sharpest rise appeared in young adults under 25, where cases jumped by 15%.

Other European nations have already taken action. The UK introduced mandatory age checks and advertising limits in 2023. Germany implemented its Glücksspielstaatsvertrag in 2021, enforcing parental consent and deposit limits for young players. Finland and Norway tightened licensing rules and expanded school-based awareness programmes.

Sweden's National Audit Office has now called for urgent improvements. It warns that current safeguards fail to protect vulnerable groups effectively. The watchdog is urging the Public Health Agency to develop clear, evidence-based guidelines for municipalities. These would help shield children and young people from gambling harm.

Among the proposed changes are stricter controls on high-risk betting products. The watchdog also recommends adding gambling problem advice to national addiction and abuse guidelines. Matej Novota, Head of Casino Research, backs the move, stressing the need for a science-led approach to consumer protection.

Sweden is reviewing its gambling laws to address gaps in protection. New measures could include tighter regulations and better support for at-risk groups. The aim is to reduce harm, especially among young people, as gambling problems continue to grow.

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