With the legal minimum age in Belgium set to raise to 21 from September 1, debate has sparked around other age-restricted activities.

The move will set Belgium apart from other EU countries which have a legal gambling age of 18, such as the UK, Sweden, Germany and Austria.

“If Belgian lawmakers believe that 21 is the right age for gambling, then shouldn’t this age limit be instituted for all high-risk activities like drinking, smoking, driving, and watching adult content?” asked Miranda Raaff, head of igaming information for casino resource portal, minimum deposit casinos.

“It seems arbitrary to single out gambling while leaving other equally, if not more risky behaviours less regulated. Perhaps, they should apply the same logic to all these activities.

Belgium’s decision raises key questions about the perceived maturity of young adults. Raaff said a more holistic approach is needed – one that addresses all risky behaviours the same.

“We need a broader global debate about legal age. If we trust 18-year-olds driving, smoking, consuming alcohol, and accessing adult material, why should gambling be treated differently? Protecting young adults means taking the same step.

“We also need to recognise that maturity levels do not change much between 18 and 21. By aligning these regulatory gaps, we will create a more realistic framework.”