Mullally vows to increase cross-border regulator cooperation
The new head of the International Association of Gaming Regulators, Kevin Mullally, has pledged to strengthen cooperation between gambling authorities worldwide as regulators seek to combat the growing threat of illegal betting markets.
Speaking in his first long-form interview since assuming the role, Mullally said illegal gambling operators remain a major challenge for regulators, often exploiting differences between jurisdictions to avoid enforcement. He argued that stronger collaboration and information sharing between gambling regulators will be essential to effectively disrupt these networks.
“IAGR’s strength comes from its members, and my first responsibility is to understand what you need most from this organisation,” he said.
“If we are successful, members will feel heard, supported, and meaningfully connected to peers across jurisdictions. Listening is not a preliminary step. It is an ongoing commitment that will shape priorities, programming, and partnerships.”
Mullally also highlighted financial crime, threats to sports integrity and the rapid evolution of gambling technology as key issues facing the global regulatory community. According to the IAGR chief, regulators must work more closely together to ensure oversight keeps pace with new products, digital platforms and cross-border gambling activity.
“This is where IAGR can make a meaningful difference. By providing a structured, trusted environment for dialogue, we help regulators learn from one another and build more informed, resilient regulatory frameworks,” he said.
“Ultimately, international cooperation makes the greatest difference when it is practical, informed, and ongoing. IAGR’s role is to ensure that regulators have the relationships, insight, and platform necessary to respond confidently in a connected world.”
He added that building stronger international partnerships would be central to the organisation’s strategy, enabling regulators to respond more quickly to emerging risks while protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of regulated gambling markets.
Mullally said the decision to appoint a CEO at IAGR had not fundamentally changed the IAGR or its function.
“The creation of a CEO role strengthens operational leadership and execution, but it does not alter governance structures or decision-making authority,” he said.
“Independence, integrity, and neutrality remain central to IAGR’s credibility and purpose.”
