The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) today announced the postponement of its annual conference: Disrupting the Regulator: Sparking innovation in regulatory practice #IAGR2020 Boston until 12-17 September 2021.

After monitoring governmental public health advice and associated jurisdictional developments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic over recent months, the Board of Trustees determined it was in the best interests of the association and its members to postpone its annual conference until 2021.

In making the announcement Mr Paul Newson, IAGR President, said: ‘It’s profoundly disappointing to delay this exciting event, but I’m confident our focus on innovation in regulatory policy and practice will be increasingly important as we transition out of lockdowns towards normality.

‘The decisive public health response to the pandemic has saved lives. I think we also need to acknowledge that the abrupt shutdown of economic activity and social interaction has devastated many businesses and livelihoods, but I think it also presents tremendous opportunity for bold innovation to overcome previous policy and regulatory inertia.

‘We have assembled an impressive line-up of leading speakers to share insights, challenge thinking and spark a contest of ideas and new ways of working at #IAGR2021. We will be liaising with each of our speakers to ensure we build on the program to best capture lessons from the pandemic that can help advance efficient and effective gambling regulation.’

The conference will still be held at the Boston Marriott, hosted by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and in partnership with the International Masters of Gaming Law we will be offering back to back conferences including a joint conference day and networking events.

‘We had an extraordinary response to our call for speakers and I wish to thank all those individuals for their patience while a decision on the timing of the conference has been pending’ Mr Newson said.

IAGR is exploring a number of options for webinars and virtual events for its members and industry stakeholders in the lead up to #IAGR2021. We also invite expressions of interest from regulators and industry stakeholders to contribute to our newsletter.

IAGR consists of representatives from gaming regulatory organisations throughout the world and aims to advance the effectiveness and efficiency of gambling regulation.

For further information please visit iagr2021 or email media@iagr.org.