The Ukrainian government has introduced its first comprehensive strategy to fight gambling addiction, illustrated by a long-term operational plan stretching from 2027 to 2029. The initiative was formalized by the cabinet of ministers on August 26, 2026, with Order No. 855‑r authorizing around 40 public agencies to collaborate on reducing the social and economic impacts of gambling by the year 2035.
This strategy acknowledges gambling addiction as a pressing public health concern and a matter of national security, calling for a coordinated governmental response. A recent study indicated that 75% of participants see gambling as a significant problem in Ukraine.
In a significant shift from past disjointed efforts, the new strategy integrates various sectors including health, social services, education, defense, security, the gambling regulator PlayCity, and the Ministry of Digital Transformation, all working together under a structured framework.
The strategy outlines five key goals, which include promoting healthy lifestyles and enhancing timely treatment and social support for those struggling with gambling disorders. Efforts will be made to encourage responsible gambling practices while also targeting the illegal gambling market with various strategies. Additionally, the plan aims to establish a data-driven system to monitor and evaluate progress.
The operational plan specifies tangible steps, responsible parties, and timelines for the years 2027 to 2029. Notable elements include a nationwide public awareness campaign, integration of gambling risk education into curriculums, and regular health screenings to detect gambling problems early on. The plan also seeks to improve access to psychological treatment, rehabilitation, and social services, tailored especially for military personnel and veterans.
To combat illegal gambling, systematic blocking of unlicensed websites and advertising will be implemented, alongside annual progress reports overseen by the Ministry of Digital Transformation starting in 2028.
The context of prolonged conflict in Ukraine has intensified issues related to gambling addiction, framing it not only as a health issue but also a national security risk. The strategy pays particular attention to the armed forces, veterans, young people, and those in economically vulnerable situations. Recently, an automated system was launched to prevent military personnel from accessing online gambling platforms.
The strategy also underscores the significant threat posed by illegal gambling operations. As of January 1, Ukraine's regulated gambling market included 34 licensed operators, offering casinos, gaming halls, online gambling, poker, and sports betting. Despite this, illegal gambling remains prevalent, with PlayCity reporting the identification of 2,844 unlicensed gambling websites between June and December 2025, averaging 113 such sites per licensed operator, and 76 unlicensed brick-and-mortar venues reported to the State Bureau for Economic Security.
Research cited in the strategy estimates that illicit gambling activities account for between 39% and 53% of total gambling. A recent survey conducted by the Ministry of Transformation revealed that 86% of respondents preferred licensed online casinos, with 78% stating they would not consider switching to unlicensed options. However, one in five gamblers knew friends who used unlicensed platforms, primarily due to benefits such as quick registration (33%), anonymity (17%), and fewer restrictions (16%).
Despite the scale of gambling activity, the number of formally diagnosed cases of pathological gambling is low, with only 308 documented cases under ICD-10 F63.0 and less than 100 individuals receiving treatment annually through the national medical guarantees program.
