Hnutie Slovensko proposes ban on alcohol and gambling TV ads

The opposition movement Hnutie Slovensko has resubmitted a proposal to the National Council of the Slovak Republic to tighten regulations on television advertising. The proposed amendment to the Media Services Act seeks to ban advertisements for alcoholic beverages and gambling between 6:00 and 22:00.

Proponents argue that current legislation is insufficient to protect children and minors. They noted that while alcohol advertising is currently restricted during the day, the ban only applies to broadcasters not subject to self-regulatory mechanisms, meaning a significant portion of the market remains unaffected. Furthermore, gambling and betting advertisements currently face no time restrictions.

Lawmakers from the Slovensko – Za ľudí club stated that since the sale of alcohol and gambling are restricted to those 18 and older, and adult programming typically airs after 22:00, advertising should follow similar time constraints. They warned that unrestricted access to these advertisements poses a high risk of impulsive behavior and addiction among youth.