Study: 86% of Ukrainians Prefer Legal Casinos

A government-backed survey in Ukraine shows that most online casino players prefer to operate with valid licenses. The second phase of this study was commissioned by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and conducted by the SOCIOINFORM Sociological Center from May 19 to June 26, 2026. A total of 2,676 users were interviewed using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) methodology. The research was supported by the Responsible Gaming Center and the Association of Gambling Operators of Ukraine, based on an initial phase published by PlayCity, the state regulator of the gambling market in Ukraine.

High Levels of Channelization

The study reveals that 86% of respondents prefer licensed online casinos, and 78% indicate that they have no intention of switching to illegal operators. Despite this strong preference for legality, informal gambling persists: one in five players reports knowing friends who gamble on unauthorized sites. Common reasons for turning to illegal platforms include quick registration without identity verification (33%), anonymity (17%), and a lack of restrictions or limits (16%).

Who Were the Participants?

The online casino audience was generally representative of middle-income, educated Ukrainians. The report indicated that 42% of participants had attained higher education, and 38% had received specialized secondary education. Income levels were predominantly middle class, with 31% reporting monthly earnings between 11,000 and 30,000 hryvnias, and 25% between 31,000 and 50,000 hryvnias. Participants, mostly with considerable gambling experience, began prior to market liberalization. Predominantly male, men constituted 73% of the sample, with 20% reporting over a decade of gambling experience, compared to 5% of women. Women represented 27%.

Motivations and Gambling Behavior

Online casino players primarily participate out of curiosity and excitement (40%). Other motivational factors included distraction from daily life (21%) and promotions (20%). About 17% stated it was for the desire to win money, and 14% cited social stimulation as a motivator. The majority (59%) described their gambling as controlled and recreational, but 35% admitted that it sometimes becomes uncontrollable, and 6% expressed that this happens frequently. Nearly 25% acknowledged chasing losses occasionally, while a similar proportion confessed to spending more than planned. About 9% admitted that gambling had caused severe financial, family, or other personal difficulties.

Mixed Knowledge of Responsible Gambling Tools

These findings have informed government policy initiatives, including the Ministry's Strategy to Combat Gambling Addiction by 2035, focusing on prevention, responsible gambling, early risk detection, behavior monitoring, and support services for affected individuals. However, the study revealed significant gaps in awareness of responsible gambling measures. Although 64% were aware of these tools, a smaller percentage knew the specific options available. Approximately two-thirds were familiar with self-control features, and 40% were aware of time and spending limits. However, only 13% knew they could access their gambling statistics, and around 11% knew the legal minimum age to gamble. A mere 10% were informed about the National Register of Individuals with Restricted Access to Gambling.

Trust in Public Institutions

The report showed mixed confidence in the public institutions regulating gambling. Just over half (53%) believed that the sector is adequately regulated. Trust in the Ministry of Digital Transformation and PlayCity was at 44%, with 22% well-informed about their roles and 30% somewhat familiar. PlayCity, which has just completed its first year as a gambling regulator in Ukraine, has issued 250 licenses to operators and providers. It has also announced a crackdown on illegal gambling, establishing direct communication channels with the social platform Kick to expedite the removal of content promoting unlicensed gambling.

Kathryn Evans covers breaking news on EMEA and U.S. legislation. A proud North Walian, Welsh speaker, and Wrexham FC fan.