Ukraine Sees Gambling as a National Problem Even Though Few People Actually Play

Three out of every four Ukrainians believe gambling has become a serious issue for the country. Yet only a small fraction of the population has actually taken part in it over the past year.

That contrast sits at the heart of a new nationwide study commissioned by Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation. The survey, which questioned 3,164 adults across the country, offers a detailed look at public attitudes as officials continue shaping gambling regulation and player protection within the state’s legal market.

The research was carried out by the Centre for Responsible Gaming with support from the Association of Ukrainian Gambling Operators. Its sample deliberately included groups often overlooked in national surveys, including internally displaced people, military personnel and younger adults.

Concern Runs Far Beyond Participation

The findings paint a picture of a country where gambling is viewed as a social problem more than a widespread personal habit.

Around 84% of respondents did not consider themselves gamblers, while one in three said they did not personally know anyone who gambles. Just 5% reported gambling during the previous 12 months, and only 2% had done so within the last month.

Despite that limited participation, 75% still described gambling as a significant challenge for Ukraine.

Among those who had gambled, financial gain remained the main motivation. Seven in ten participants pointed to the possibility of winning money. Excitement and emotional stimulation followed, while smaller numbers mentioned entertainment, escaping daily pressures, advertising or encouragement from friends.

Most Players Walk Away

The study also suggests gambling rarely became a long-term habit for those who tried it.

More than eight in ten former gamblers said they had stopped. For most, the decision came simply because they lost interest. Others cited financial reasons, while a smaller group said concerns about developing an addiction led them to quit.

Reported harm within the survey remained relatively limited. Most respondents who had gambled said they had not experienced negative consequences, and very few reported lending money to support someone else’s gambling during the past year.

Public Backs Stronger Regulation

Support for tighter safeguards was widespread regardless of low participation rates.

Nearly three-quarters of respondents favoured stronger measures to prevent gambling addiction, while two-thirds supported strict regulation of the industry. Half also wanted tighter controls on gambling advertising, even though only a small minority believed advertising had directly influenced their own behaviour.

People who had recently gambled were generally more familiar with responsible gambling tools. Many knew they could review their betting history, set spending or time limits, or use the national exclusion register that blocks eligible individuals from accessing gambling services.

The findings suggest Ukraine’s gambling debate is being shaped less by personal experience than by public perception. Even in a market where participation remains limited, voters appear ready to support tighter oversight if it reduces the risk of gambling-related harm.

Source: igamingexpress.com

Ukraine Sees Gambling as a National Problem Even Though Few People Actually Play

Concern Runs Far Beyond Participation

Most Players Walk Away

Public Backs Stronger Regulation

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