The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has approved the country’s first Strategy to Combat Gaming Addiction. Alongside the strategy, an action plan for its implementation through 2029 has also been adopted.
Around 40 government agencies will be involved in implementing the strategy, with separate programmes to be developed for military personnel and veterans.
Previously, responsible gambling measures focused on self-exclusion and advertising. The adopted strategy now expands this to healthcare, education and social protection.
Planned activities include information campaigns and educational programmes on the risks of gambling, as well as screenings for the early detection of gaming addiction.
The strategy also aims to expand access to treatment, psychological assistance and rehabilitation, while creating separate support programmes for soilders.
It also includes measures to strengthen the fight against illegal gambling sites, unlawful advertising and gambling-related crime.
Earlier this month, a large-scale public information campaign aimed at improving awareness of gambling addiction was launched. The initiative is being led by the Centre for Responsible Gaming, with support from gambling regulator PlayCity and the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine.
Campaign materials have been introduced across 17 regions, including major cities such as Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa and Kharkiv.
Materials also include QR codes directing users to a gambling addiction guide previously developed by PlayCity and the Ministry of Digital Transformation. The guide explains how to recognise problematic gambling, outlines available player-protection tools, and provides information on where to find support.
Furthermore, recent research identified young people and military personnel as groups facing comparatively higher gambling-related risks.
A recent national study found that 75% of Ukrainians surveyed considered gambling a serious challenge for the country
