Across the region, countries are courting gamblers and the gambling industry, betting that they can use it to boost revenues in bleak economic times. But the industry has brought some of the dark side often associated with it—social ills including crime, corruption and gambling addiction.
Easy access to betting parlors is proving is proving irresistible to a growing segment of gamblers across the Balkans. The availability of treatment for addicts and the amount of money spent on prevention are not keeping pace.
The history of casinos in Serbia has been plagued with violence and unsavory characters. New laws have given the state oversight of legitimate casinos, but some problems remain.
Romania has no restrictions on who gets a gambling license, little regulation on its casinos and a law enforcement system that’s never convicted anyone of money laundering. All of this in spite of what investigators say is a booming market. Many have lined up to enter the business.
Bulgaria’s casino and gambling operators have close ties with top government officials and others who protect their fortunes and interests in what analysts across Europe say is a web of corruption.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is teeming with slot parlors and bookmaking shops catering to a population struggling with poverty and unemployment. But getting those businesses to pay their tax bills is a challenge for regulators.
Macedonia bet on casinos 18-years ago as a way to help its ailing economy. Taking advantage of its prime location, it’s luring tourists from neighboring countries and thriving as a destination in spite of some early scandal.
Major players in gambling in the Balkans span various countries and are involved in everything from casinos to bet shops to slot houses. Here a few of them.
