12th EL Congress 2025 - Safeguarding the European Lottery Model; Building a Better World

With more than 550 participants gathered in Bern, the 12th EL Congress once again confirmed its place as the flagship lottery event of the year. Hosted by Loterie Romande and Swisslos, and organised together with EL Level I Partners Scientific Games and Brightstar and Level II Partner Aristocrat Interactive, this year’s theme - “Building a Better World” – is a reminder that lotteries are – and have always been – a force for good in society.

Romana Girandon, EL President and Jean-Luc Moner-Banet officially opened the EL Congress and Trade Show

Over three days, lottery members, partners and other stakeholders from across Europe and beyond came together for a rich programme of keynotes, panels and exchanges. From inspiring personal testimonies to in-depth debates on responsibility, regulation and innovation, the Congress highlighted the diversity and strength of the lottery community. Beyond the formal sessions, the Trade Show, EL Advertising Awards and countless networking opportunities created an atmosphere of energy, pride and shared purpose.

The Congress emphasised the importance of protecting and defending the European lottery model - a model that ensures transparency in operations and financial flows, guarantees fairness for all participants, and channels proceeds back into society. From funding cultural projects to supporting sports, health and community initiatives, the proceeds of lotteries continue to strengthen democracy and bring people together.

A defining moment came with the keynote speech of Count Herman Van Rompuy, President Emeritus of the European Council and former Prime Minister of Belgium.

Keynote by Count Herman Van Rompuy ''What role for the EU in a dangerous world? What kind of Europe?

Speaking at a time when Europe faces multiple challenges, Mr. Van Rompuy’s message was clear - “Only people can help people. Together we are stronger. We hope for more hope.” Trust must continue to be earned and the EU can only be strong and achieve results for its citizens if we are united. Highlighting the enduring societal value of national lotteries built on equality, solidarity, integrity, responsibility, and sustainability, Mr. Van Rompuy reiterated how their role in supporting our society deserves, more than ever, special recognition in the Union.

panel 1 congress — Panel discussion: Navigating Lotteries in an Evolving Regulatory Landscape

Other keynote speakers added their own perspectives: Ms. Simonetta Sommaruga, former President of the Swiss Confederation, and President of the Board of the Equal-Salary Foundation, inspired participants with her vision of leadership rooted in equality, justice and sustainability. Ms. Sommaruga underscored how people’s trust is the greatest asset, where responsibility and equality is in our own hands.

Nicolas Henchoz, Founding Director of the EPFL+ECAL Lab, taught us how innovation can serve society, Olympic medalist Laurence Rochat spoke of clarity, resilience and sustainable performance, and Council of Europe’s Stanislas Frossard set the tone with insights on safeguarding integrity in sport across Europe. Together, these voices reflected the breadth of the discussions and the relevance of lotteries in addressing society’s wider challenges.

Webpost 3.png — From left to right: Nicolas Henchoz, Laurence Rochat and Stanislas Frossard

The message is simple: the positive societal impact – proven over centuries - makes lotteries part of Europe’s cultural heritage and social fabric, but also essential for the future. Rooted in values of solidarity, integrity and responsibility, national lotteries remain a pillar of public good. And as Mr. Van Rompuy reminded all, it is only by standing together that we can truly build a better world.