Kërçovë gambling establishments violate school proximity laws

In Kërçovë, North Macedonia, casinos, betting shops, and quick-loan offices are operating in violation of new laws. Despite legislation requiring these establishments to be located at least 500 meters away from schools, several facilities are situated as close as 90 meters from high schools, such as the ‘Drita’ and ‘Mirko Milevski’ gymnasiums.

Reports indicate that these businesses use large advertisements that target youth, and the proximity remains unchanged despite the legal requirements. Unofficial data suggests there are over 20 casinos and betting shops in the city, though the actual number may be higher.

Mihalis Rokas, the European Union Ambassador to North Macedonia, previously noted that this issue is a nationwide problem rather than one isolated to Kërçovë. He suggested that the government could utilize EU reform funds to help find a collective solution to the regulatory challenges.