Why focus so much on individuals? Look at the countries where gambling is 100% legalized, such as Macau and Monaco. These countries have become super-rich due to the tax revenues from casinos. Also, huge number of jobs are created as a result of gambling.
Yes some countries have legalize gambling, but still they have restricted the under age people from visiting casino and play gambling there. I think t hat it is a good decision it can prevent young people from wasting their time by visiting casinos.
How come that would be a waste of time? It's their own opinion / decision?
Only a person decides their fate, if those you people wanted to "waste" their money then it should be ok.
Okay if you spend time for entertainment and to make yourself relax form your daily routine it is not a waste of time. But if you do not do anything else and just want to gamble than you are not developing your skills as you can learn so many new things instead of gambling which time you would be spending their.