Where on Earth is it Most Difficult to Gamble?

Which places on this spinning rock make it most difficult to gamble?

Recently, the folks at PokerJunkie.com attempted to answer that question by documenting the eight toughest geographic markets for gambling.

It should be noted, however, that casinos and online gambling are viewed as entertainment in many countries, while others strictly prohibit it.

Bhutan – Lotteries are the only type of gambling allowed here.  Strict laws are enforced resulting in a minimum one-month jail term for even a single misdemeanor.  A single offense can lead up to a year in jail.

Afghanistan – Once the Taliban took control of the government, it outlawed gambling.   The ban still remains today, although a large underground gambling market exists for kite and animal fighting.

Cayman Islands – Gambling of any form is strictly prohibited.  This is a surprising fact considering the Cayman Islands are a major tourist destination and hub for businesses seeking tax shelter.  Most gambling offenses carry only a $10 maximum fine.  Some though can lead up to two months in prison.

Indonesia – All forms of gambling here, be it online or in person, are illegal. The predominantly Muslim nation once had a lottery, but after protests was forced to shut down.  Punishment is particularly harsh with convicted gamblers carrying up to a 10 year prison sentence.  Public beatings of gamblers are common.

Algeria – Gambling is not allowed.  Similar to Afghanistan the ban is based upon religion

Vatican City – In the home of Catholicism, gambling is prohibited.  The small population of only 900 are mostly tied to a rather pure form of the religion and will likely never see gambling made legal.

Pakistan – The Muslim nation also bans all forms of gambling.  Koran, the religious text of Islam, proclaims any type of gambling as ‘evil’.  As with Afghanistan, there is a prominent underground gambling market.  A fine can be up to the equivalent of $10 with imprisonment ranging up to a year term.

North Korea – In North Korea, only tourists are allowed to gamble.  Everything is regulated here.  The primary form of gambling here is Pachinko and is highly regulated.