Sweden has been lobbying to keep online gambling advertisements illegal and finally got the okay from the European Justice Court (EJC).  The Swedish government does not approve of the idea of online gambling ads because they promote a potentially addictive behaviour.

After two major Swedish newspapers printed online sports betting ads, the government went after the editors and publishers, citing the laws against any form of gambling advertisements.   The newspapers were fined for their transgressions but appealed to the European Justice Court in the hopes of having the decision overthrown.

Unfortunately for online casinos and the Swedish newspapers in question, the European Justice Court ruled in favour of the Swedish government and agreed that all forms of online gambling advertisements are illegal.

The EJC found that Sweden is not in violation of the European Union laws since the prohibition of online gambling advertisements considers public security.  However, the EJC did warn Sweden that any fines imposed on those who violate the gambling advertisement laws would have to be in accordance with the European Union.  Therefore, fines cannot exceed those set by other European Union member countries. 

The decision significantly affects the online gambling industry and is considered a major setback.  There is still a chance that the laws will be changed in the future but for now online gamblers will have to use word of mouth to choose an online casino rather than advertisements.