Ukraine Unveils Long-Term Strategy to Address Gambling Addiction

Highlights

• Ukraine has approved its first long-term strategy to combat gambling addiction, focusing on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and public awareness.
• Authorities will strengthen action against illegal gambling while expanding support for vulnerable groups, including military personnel and veterans.

Ukraine has approved its first long-term, cross-sector strategy to combat gambling addiction, introducing a coordinated approach that will involve government agencies, health services, education bodies, security organisations and gambling authorities. 

The strategy is supported by a three-year operational plan covering the period from 2027 to 2029 and forms part of a broader effort to reduce gambling-related harm.

The initiative focuses on several areas, including prevention, early identification, treatment, rehabilitation and public awareness. Authorities plan to improve the systems used to identify harmful gambling behaviour and expand access to psychological and social support for people affected by gambling addiction.

Particular attention will be given to vulnerable groups, including military personnel and veterans. Ukraine has recognised that the continued impact of war can increase exposure to harmful coping behaviours, making gambling-related harm a wider social concern rather than solely a regulatory issue.

The strategy also includes stronger action against illegal gambling. Unlicensed websites and gambling advertising are expected to face more systematic blocking as authorities seek to improve consumer protection and limit access to services operating outside the regulated market.

Government bodies will work alongside PlayCity and the Ministry of Digital Transformation to coordinate implementation and monitor progress. Improved data collection and cooperation between different agencies are also expected to support a more informed approach to gambling harm.

The move demonstrates the growing importance of responsible gambling within national regulatory frameworks. As gambling markets develop, regulators are increasingly looking beyond licensing and enforcement to address the long-term social effects associated with gambling.

Ukraine’s strategy shows how player protection, public health and regulatory policy can increasingly operate as connected elements of a modern gambling framework. 

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