Hundreds of industry-leading researchers, policy makers and representatives from around the world are expected to gather in Vancouver for the British Columbia Lottery Corporation’s New Horizons in Responsible Gambling Conference from March 10 to 12. The focus will be on identifying how to future-proof the gambling industry against the dangers of problem gambling.

Delegates and speakers will be sharing their insights and knowledge around four main areas, the first of which examines how stakeholders would build the gambling industry today, armed with current knowledge of the potential for gaming related harm.

The second topic will focus on what safeguards would be put in place, followed by discussion on how the industry would design gaming products and environments. Lastly, delegates will be asked to take a look at what they would stop or continue doing to encourage safer gambling and identify knowledge gaps to ensure the industry grows in a socially responsible manner.

All of the conference sessions address one of three key topics: promoting safer play, developing a culture that prioritizes the well-being of consumers and reducing harms associated with gambling products. 

Spearheading these discussions is an impressive lineup of international speakers that includes Tim Miller, Executive Director at the UK Gambling Commission, and Misha Glouberman, Faculty Director at the Ivey Academy at Western University’s Ivey Business School.  

Another important first this year, the conference findings will be synthesized into a summary paper, with a research agenda, to help break down the key issues and define implementable solutions for the industry. 

Jamie Wiebe, BCLC Director, Player Health, said: “Through inspiring keynotes, expert speakers, case studies, and conversations, we’re working together to find solutions to the known gaps in responsible gambling and player health across our industry. It’s an exciting opportunity for the industry to level-set the future of gambling, based on what we know is working, and what’s not, in BC, across Canada and around the world.”