Ukraine Approves National Strategy Against Gambling Addiction until 2035
The Government of Ukraine will implement a comprehensive policy to prevent gambling addiction, promote treatment, and combat illegal gambling until 2035.
Key Takeaways
- The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine approved a national strategy against gambling addiction effective until 2035.
- The policy includes educational campaigns, early detection, and expanded access to treatments and psychological support.
- The strategy will strengthen the blocking of illegal websites and increase controls over gambling advertising in Ukraine.
- Approximately 40 state agencies, including ministries and security bodies, will implement the plan.
- Specific programs will address the needs of military personnel and veterans affected by gambling addiction.
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has officially approved the Strategy to Combat Gambling Addiction, which will be in effect until 2035. The document sets out national guidelines focused on prevention, treatment, and strengthening inter-institutional cooperation to address both addiction and illegal gambling.
National Strategy to Prevent Gambling Addiction
The strategy, announced by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, codifies the state policy on the prevention of gambling addiction. The text details national awareness campaigns regarding the risks associated with gambling and the integration of educational content into school curricula to address the threat of addiction from an early age.
The plan also prioritizes the early detection of signs of addiction and identifying risk factors that may contribute to its development within the population.
New Focus on Treatment and Psychological Support
The strategy includes plans to expand access to specialized treatments, psychological support, and rehabilitation programs for individuals with gambling problems. A specific line of action will be created for the design of support programs targeted at active military personnel and veterans, recognizing this group as particularly vulnerable.
The state aims to strengthen cooperation between health agencies and educational institutions to optimize access to therapies and monitor patient progress. Details regarding funding or the potential number of beneficiaries of these services have not been disclosed in the official document.
Measures Against Illegal Gambling and Unlawful Advertising
A central axis of the strategy is the fight against illegal gambling and unauthorized advertising. Authorities will reinforce actions to block unregulated betting websites and eliminate advertising campaigns that violate existing regulations.
Law enforcement, in coordination with other state and private institutions, will increase efforts dedicated to counteracting criminal activities related to gambling and sanctioning illegal offers.
Agencies Involved in the Strategy Against Gambling Addiction
A total of approximately 40 public agencies will be responsible for executing the planned actions. Among the main actors are the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Veterans' Affairs, and the Ministry of Social Policy.
Additionally, the Office of Economic Security, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the National Police, and PlayCity will participate, along with institutions from the education, health, and security sectors. Joint efforts seek to ensure the fulfillment of both preventive and repressive objectives across the entire national territory.
“The implementation of the strategy seeks to unify the efforts of government agencies, medical and educational institutions, law enforcement, and other organizations.” — Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine
Implementation Outlook and Next Steps
While specific timelines for each initiative have not been detailed, the strategy sets the horizon of 2035 for achieving its main goals. Progress will be periodically evaluated by the responsible agencies, adjusting actions based on the evolution of prevalence indicators of gambling addiction and illegal activities in the sector.
For operators, suppliers, and other actors regulated by the Ukrainian market, the new policy will involve a stricter compliance framework, especially regarding advertising and prevention requirements. The deployment of new control and educational tools may affect both B2C operations and B2B services linked to regulation and responsible gaming solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the national strategy against gambling addiction in Ukraine come into effect?
The strategy was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers and will be in effect until 2035. Its implementation will involve multiple state agencies from the time of its approval.
What measures does the strategy include to prevent gambling addiction?
The plan includes awareness campaigns, school classes on gambling risks, and systems for early detection of addiction signs. Additionally, access to treatment and rehabilitation will be expanded.
Who is responsible for implementing the strategy?
About 40 agencies are involved, including the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Health, Education and Science, Defense, Veterans' Affairs, the National Police, and PlayCity.
How does this plan combat illegal gambling?
The strategy prioritizes blocking illegal websites and reinforcing penalties against unlawful advertising, coordinating with law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
Are there specific actions for military or veterans?
The document anticipates support and psychological treatment programs specifically tailored for active military personnel and veterans, recognized as a vulnerable group in the plan.
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About the author
Miguel Sandoval
Regulatory Affairs Correspondent
Miguel Sandoval tracks gambling legislation, licensing, and regulator enforcement — from Spain's DGOJ and the Latin American authorities to the UKGC, the MGA, and the state-by-state map in North America. The reports answer three questions precisely — what changed, where, and who it affects — with jurisdictions, dates, and penalties cited exactly as published. Operators and compliance officers read Miguel Sandoval to know which rulebook moved before their next meeting.
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