The WLA is committed to the development of risk management resources

To assess the current risk landscape, a second survey was conducted in 2023.  This survey, released in late May, targeted risk management specialists. The objective of the survey was to bring insights that would help the WLA better understand risk management maturity across the membership base, to refresh the Lottery Risk Register and to better target risk management support offerings for members.

Survey responses were analyzed through June and July, and results are now available to share with members.

Survey responses highlighted that:

• More than half of members have a dedicated risk team.
• Where such a team exists, most report to their Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer.  
• While the role of risk management specialists within member organizations may vary, all are focussed on monitoring, assessing, and managing risk.
• Two-thirds have formal incident management processes in place and report upwards to a senior management committee or Board.
• Half utilize formal risk management methodologies and have risk appetite statements in place.
• When asked to rank a list of risk events, failure to win new or retain existing lottery licences and cyber-attack and privacy breaches were ranked most highly.  Political risk also ranked highly.
• Over half confirmed that risks have emerged in the last 12 months.  Of these, half mentioned cyber security risk and over a third political risk.
• When asked to rank those areas where WLA could support members, risk identification and assessment were identified as the most critical followed by controls assessments.  Risk culture also ranked highly.
• Members suggested that the WLA should focus on education for members and facilitate collaboration between members.

Where to next?

Having socialized survey results with members of the Security and Risk Management Committee and the Executive Committee, next steps planned will include:

• A refresh of the Lotteries Risk Register.
• Identification of material risk categories for deeper review and the development of supporting risk profiles.
• Identification and development of risk management guidance tools.
• Engagement with members through updated website content and other activities.
• Collaboration with regional associations to recognize any localized risks and support the building of risk management expertise, noting this has already commenced with the European Lotteries Association.

How can members be involved?

Members are encouraged to utilize the resources currently available via the WLA website and keep an eye out for website updates and other collaboration opportunities.  Visit the resource material here

To share ideas or provide feedback on work completed or planned, please contact via WLA - Security security@world-lotteries.org