Liechtenstein anti-gambling campaigners fail to shut down casinos
An attempt to introduce cancel culture into Liechtenstein’s casino industry has failed. Attempts to hold public votes to abolish casinos in European countries have failed, although the group behind the initiative is unlikely to give up anytime soon.
On Sunday, the vast majority of locals made their voices heard. They risked the freezing cold to deal with a referendum that could force the closure of Liechtenstein's six casinos over the next five years.
One by one, they let IG VolksMeinung, the organization behind the initiative, know how they felt. Once the inventory was taken, the answer was clear.
Say No to Abolition of Casino Culture
The country's main news agency, El Vollo, reported that 10,383 of the 14,383 residents who called to express their opinions showed up to vote. That’s roughly 70% of the group, which is a clear indication that a majority want to have their say on the issue.
Of this group, more than 73% said IG VolksMeinung was wrong to try to force the issue. Instead, the "Las Vegas of the Alps" will continue to invite tourists from around the world to visit its casinos.
For many, the results are not shocking. IG VolksMeinung fought an uphill battle from the start, with everyone from the federal parliament to local companies to Prince Hans Adam II speaking out against the measure.
The organization believes the country is being "overwhelmed" by casinos and problem gambling. Liechtenstein has a large casino footprint, but there is no evidence that gambling addiction is widespread, reports Volksblatt.
Liechtenstein's six casinos offer residents more gambling options than customers currently need, so at least one of them is likely to close within the next few years.
It's unclear what the advocacy group expected after the first attempt failed. They did not respond to requests for comment as of press time. But history shows that most stakeholders will not give up easily.
Some mixed reactions
Although the measure largely failed, some areas of Liechtenstein supported the ban more than others. For example, 32.2% of Balzers respondents voted Yes in the referendum. The village is located approximately 8 minutes south of Admiral Trison Casino.
This is where support for the measure is highest. Es and Schaan are the only two villages with support above 30%. Schaan is home to the Liechtenstein Plaza Casino.
IG VolksMeinung argued that the small state's reputation was damaged by the casino's presence. However, Liechtenstein is little more than a puppet in the international gambling community.
If anything, these venues have helped attract new businesses and visitors to the area. Given the attention being paid to attempts to close casinos, there could be a temporary surge in market activity.
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Source: www.casino.org
