Draft:The Foundation for Curaçao Gaming Victims (SBGOK)

STICHTING BELANGENBEHARTIGING GEDUPEERDEN ONLINE KANSSPELEN

The Foundation for Curaçao Gaming Victims (Dutch: Stichting Belangenbehartiging Gedupeerden Online Kansspelen, SBGOK) is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting individuals in a dispute with gaming operators based in Curaçao. The foundation offers legal aid, advocacy, and educational resources to victims worldwide. Its mission is to seek justice for those wronged by online gaming practices and to counterbalance the legal and financial power of online casino operators.

History
The Foundation for Curaçao Gaming Victims was established in response to complaints about fraudulent activities by online gaming operators licensed in Curaçao and international victims undertaking legal action in the Curaçao courts. Recognizing the need for a dedicated entity to represent and assist victims, the foundation was officially registered with the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce under the name Stichting Belangenbehartiging Gedupeerden Online Kansspelen, abbreviated to SBGOK.

Mission and Objectives
The mission of SBGOK is to provide comprehensive support to victims of gaming fraud, promote fair gaming practices, and advocate for stronger regulatory frameworks. The foundation aims to:
 * Provide legal assistance and representation to victims of online gaming fraud.
 * Educate the public about the risks associated with fraudulent gaming operations.
 * Advocate for regulatory reforms to prevent gaming fraud and protect consumers.

Activities and Programs
SBGOK offers a variety of programs and services to support victims, including:
 * Legal Assistance: Providing free or subsidized legal support to victims of fraudulent gaming operations.
 * Awareness Campaigns: Conducting public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the risks of online gaming fraud.
 * Research and Advocacy: Conducting research on gaming fraud and advocating for policy changes to enhance consumer protection.
 * Contingency Support: Offering services on a contingency basis (no cure, no pay) to ensure that victims can pursue their claims without upfront costs.

Impact
Since its inception, SBGOK has been involved in a significant amount of legal actions, including the bankruptcy proceedings against 1xCorp N.V. (1xBet). The foundation has also played a crucial role in advocating for regulatory reforms in Curaçao, highlighting the need for stricter oversight and better consumer protection measures. These efforts have been recognized by various industry publications and regulatory bodies. Additionally, none of the master license holders in Curaçao currently possess a valid license, pointing to serious regulatory deficiencies that the foundation seeks to address.

Additional References

 * "New Gambling Law in Curaçao: Player Interests at Stake". Curaçao Chronicle. Link. A new gambling law in Curaçao is being debated with the aim of better protecting player interests and regulating the industry more effectively.
 * "Russian Gambling Company Bankrupt but Still in Business in Curaçao". Curaçao Chronicle. Link. Despite declaring bankruptcy, a Russian gambling company continues its operations in Curaçao, raising questions about regulatory oversight.
 * "ECLI:NL:HR:2023:50". rechtspraak.nl. Link. The Dutch Supreme Court ruled on a significant case involving Curaçao's gambling regulations and their enforcement.
 * "Welcome to Curaçao: How a Caribbean Island Facilitates the Illegal Betting Boom". Play the Game. Link. Brazil has become a major target for offshore betting companies with flimsy sub-licenses from Curaçao, raising concerns about unregulated betting and lack of protection for bettors.
 * "Antillephone Opposes Asset Seizure". Antilliaans Dagblad. Link. Antillephone opposes the seizure of assets related to its gambling operations, reflecting ongoing legal and regulatory challenges in the industry.
 * "“Bullsh*t” or Benefit, Curaçao Reform Roundtable". iGaming Future. Link. A roundtable discussion on Curaçao's gambling reforms reveals divided opinions on whether the changes will genuinely benefit the industry or are merely superficial.
 * "1xBet: More Than a Betting Operator". Knipselkrant Curaçao. Link. The article explores the operations of 1xBet, highlighting its controversial practices and extensive reach in the global betting market.
 * "CN & SBGOK Objects to Articles 1-3 of the Gaming Ordinance (LOK)". Knipselkrant Curaçao. Link. CN & SBGOK file objections against specific articles of the proposed gambling legislation (LOK) in Curaçao, citing concerns about its implementation.
 * "Complaint Filed Against Cyberluck for Fraudulent Online Gambling". Knipselkrant Curaçao. Link. A complaint has been filed against Cyberluck, accusing the company of engaging in fraudulent online gambling activities.
 * "None of the Master License Holders in Curaçao Have a Valid License". Curaçao.nu. |en) Link. None of the master license holders in Curaçao currently possess a valid license, pointing to serious regulatory deficiencies.
 * "1XBet being sued by players, facing bankruptcy and license cancelled". Josimar Football. Link. The article investigates the intersection of football and illegal betting, focusing on how unregulated operators exploit legal loopholes.