As.Tro: 2,500 square centimetres of legality to defend responsible gambling
In today’s complex landscape of public gambling, often the subject of controversy and stereotypes, has launched a bold and constructive message. It does so with a campaign bearing a powerful title: “2,500 Square Centimetres of Legality”, developed in collaboration with the communications agency Cui Prodest. The objective is to firmly affirm that legal gambling represents a space of responsibility, transparency, and state oversight, not a grey area to be suppressed or dismantled.
The physical footprint of a slot machine or legal gaming device – those 2,500 cm² – becomes a symbol of a regulated, authorised, and state-monitored environment. Where legal gambling exists, there is accountability, traceability, and clearly defined rules. Where that space is removed, the risk of illegal gambling and social isolation grows.
Legality, rules and social partnership
At the core of this campaign is the voice of , managing partner of Cui Prodest and the mind behind the initiative. His words encapsulate the mission perfectly:
“Inside those 2,500 square centimetres is the State, the licensed operators, and the rules. When a player engages with a legal device, they know what they are facing. With an illegal machine, they are alone. Within As.Tro, there is a platform of dialogue between the concessionaires and the player on responsible gambling”.
This declaration reflects the heart of the campaign: to turn the physical space of lawful gambling into a point of connection between institutions, operators, and citizens, promoting a shared culture of responsibility.
The “Centimetres of Legality” website: information and prevention
To support the campaign, As.Tro has launched a dedicated website: . Here, users can explore the principles of responsible gambling, understand the importance of legality in the sector, and learn how to distinguish between legitimate and illegal offerings. The platform serves as a valuable educational tool, targeting a broad audience including players, families, business owners, local administrators, and journalists.
One of the most impactful features of the website is its clear and accessible guidance on promoting healthy, responsible play. It reiterates that gambling should be approached as a form of entertainment, never a means to earn money. It stresses the importance of not chasing losses, not borrowing money to gamble, and not using gambling as an emotional crutch during periods of sadness or stress. Gambling should only be engaged in when one is lucid, informed, and emotionally stable.
The daily struggle of operators defending legal gambling
One of the campaign’s key elements is highlighting the often-overlooked efforts of legal gambling operators. Despite limited tools at their disposal, these professionals strive daily to protect players and maintain a lawful environment. This includes adopting ethical codes, investing in training, observing limits and schedules, and clearly informing customers about game rules and odds of winning.
While illegal offerings operate in the shadows – unchecked and unaccountable – legal providers build trust. The As.Tro campaign shows that gambling, when properly regulated, can become a socially responsible model rooted in legality and respect for individuals, managed with transparency and professionalism.
Towards a culture of conscious gambling
“2,500 Square Centimetres of Legality” is more than a public awareness campaign. It is a civil statement – a call to move beyond prejudice and address the subject of gambling with clarity and fairness. As.Tro is not asking for immunity, but for recognition: for the contribution of those who follow the rules, and for the creation of a stable, collaborative network between institutions, civil society, and licensed operators.
Each square centimetre of a legal gaming device represents the presence of the State, clear regulations, and the ability to play safely. Above all, it ensures that the player is not left alone but is protected by fair mechanisms and a more balanced narrative.
In a country that truly wishes to protect its citizens, even those 2,500 cm² matter. Because where legality retreats, something else always advances – and often, it is far more dangerous.
This article was first published in Italian on 22 July 2025.
