SiGMA News had the privilege to engage in a comprehensive discussion with Rossi McKee, entrepreneur and visionary founder of the Responsible Gaming Foundation (RGF) in Bulgaria. Established in 2015, RGF has been steadfast in its mission to address and prevent harmful gaming behaviour, curb excessive digital device usage, and combat the burgeoning issue of online gaming addiction. In this exclusive interview, McKee sheds light on RGF’s journey, objectives, and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering responsible gaming practices in Bulgaria.

Founding principles and mission

McKee elaborates on the foundational principles of RGF, tracing back to its inception in 2008, highlighting the imperative of promoting sustainable growth within the gaming industry while safeguarding societal well-being. The core mission revolves around facilitating collaboration among industry stakeholders, governmental bodies, and regulators to strike a balance that prioritizes the interests of all parties involved.

Promoting responsible gaming practices

The conversation delves into RGF’s strategies for promoting responsible gaming practices, emphasizing the pivotal role of awareness campaigns, seminars, and conferences targeted at industry leaders and players alike. McKee stresses the importance of education, particularly among vulnerable youth, underscoring the need for responsible gaming to be integrated into the broader discourse on digital device usage.

Collaborative initiatives and partnerships

RGF’s collaborative efforts extend beyond national borders, with McKee highlighting partnerships with international organizations such as GameCare and ICAM. By leveraging accumulated expertise and sharing best practices, RGF aims to enhance responsible gaming frameworks and support operators in implementing effective player protection measures.

Future endeavours and initiatives

Looking ahead, McKee unveils RGF’s ambitious plans, including the expansion of awareness campaigns to encompass responsible digital device usage. With the proliferation of online platforms offering betting services, RGF recognizes the urgency of extending awareness beyond traditional gaming realms. Additionally, plans are underway to establish a council comprising industry representatives, nonprofit organizations, and regulatory bodies to facilitate dialogue and consensus-building on responsible gaming policies.

As the interview draws to a close, McKee reaffirms RGF’s commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices and fostering a sustainable gaming environment in Bulgaria. Through ongoing collaboration, education, and advocacy, RGF endeavours to mitigate the risks associated with gaming addiction and ensure the well-being of players and the industry at large. SiGMA News extends its gratitude to Rossi McKee for sharing insights into RGF’s invaluable contributions to the gaming landscape in Bulgaria.