President Zelensky signed a decree to ban online gambling for the military until the end of martial law. The decision came after public discussions on the negative social impacts of gambling and a petition calling for restrictions on online gambling. The decree tasks the government with defining restrictions on all forms of gambling advertising, including ads that use the symbols of Ukraine’s Armed Forces. It also calls for a large-scale information campaign on the dangers of gambling, the introduction of an online monitoring system, and the blocking of illegal gambling websites. The Security Service of Ukraine will examine gambling organizers for compliance with the legislation within two months, while military personnel are prohibited from accessing gambling facilities and online casinos.
In early April, the Parliamentary Finance Committee supported measures that would strengthen oversight of the gambling industry in Ukraine. A bill was passed that included the liquidation of the Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries, shifting its responsibilities to the Digital Transformation Ministry. Gambling was officially banned in Ukraine in 2009 until its legalization in 2020. The chairman of the parliamentary Finance Committee stated that the gambling business in Ukraine paid significant amounts in taxes in the first two months of 2024 and in 2023, highlighting the industry’s contribution to the country’s economy.
The move to tighten control over the online gambling industry in Ukraine comes as a response to the increasing concerns about the negative social impacts of gambling. The government’s decision to ban online gambling for the military highlights the recognition of the potential harm that gambling can cause, especially among vulnerable populations like military personnel. By defining restrictions on gambling advertising and implementing measures to block illegal gambling websites, Ukraine aims to protect its citizens from the adverse effects of excessive gambling. The emphasis on education through a large-scale information campaign underscores the importance of raising awareness about the risks associated with gambling.
The decision to transfer oversight of the gambling industry to the Digital Transformation Ministry reflects a shift in focus towards modernizing and regulating the sector more effectively. By holding gambling organizers accountable for compliance with legislation and imposing restrictions on advertising, Ukraine seeks to create a safer environment for individuals engaging in gambling activities. The ban on online gambling for the military demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding vulnerable groups from potential harm. The government’s efforts to implement stricter regulations and enforcement measures indicate a commitment to addressing the negative consequences of gambling while promoting responsible gaming practices.
Overall, the recent developments in Ukraine regarding the regulation of the gambling industry demonstrate a multifaceted approach aimed at addressing the social, economic, and security implications of online gambling. By enforcing restrictions on advertising, implementing an online monitoring system, and blocking illegal gambling websites, the government is taking proactive steps to protect its citizens. The focus on education and awareness-raising further reinforces Ukraine’s commitment to promoting responsible gambling practices and preventing the negative impacts associated with excessive gambling. The transfer of oversight responsibilities to the Digital Transformation Ministry signifies a strategic move towards modernizing the regulatory framework for the gambling industry, signaling a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability within the sector.
