Survey Finds Strong Support for Gambling Controls in Ukraine

A new nationwide survey commissioned by Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation has revealed that most Ukrainians view gambling as a significant social issue, despite relatively low levels of participation.

The study surveyed 3,164 adults across the country and was conducted by the Centre for Responsible Gaming with support from the Association of Ukrainian Gambling Operators. Researchers included a broad cross-section of society, including internally displaced persons, military personnel and younger adults.

According to the findings, 75% of respondents believe gambling represents a serious challenge for Ukraine. However, actual engagement with gambling remains limited. Around 84% said they do not consider themselves gamblers, while only 5% reported gambling during the past 12 months and just 2% had participated within the previous month.

The survey also found that one-third of respondents do not personally know anyone who gambles.

Among those who had taken part in gambling activities, the possibility of winning money was identified as the main motivation. Approximately 70% cited financial gain as their primary reason for participating. Other motivations included excitement, emotional stimulation, entertainment and to a lesser extent, advertising or social influence.

The research suggests that gambling does not become a lasting activity for most participants. More than 80% of former gamblers said they had stopped gambling altogether. The most common reason was a loss of interest, while others pointed to financial concerns or worries about the potential for addiction.

Most respondents who had gambled reported experiencing no significant negative consequences. Only a small number indicated they had lent money to support another person’s gambling activities during the previous year.

Public support for stronger gambling controls was also evident throughout the survey. Nearly three-quarters of participants backed additional measures aimed at preventing gambling addiction, while around two-thirds supported stricter industry regulation. Half of those surveyed also favoured tighter restrictions on gambling advertising.

Participants who had recently gambled demonstrated greater awareness of responsible gambling tools, including spending limits, session controls, access to betting history and the national self-exclusion register.

The findings indicate that public concern about gambling in Ukraine extends beyond personal participation, with strong support for regulatory safeguards and consumer protection measures even among those who do not actively engage in gambling activities.