Ukraine’s gambling oversight landscape is undergoing a significant transformation following the liquidation of the Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (CRGL). A new body tasked with regulating gambling and lotteries is set to be established by April, following the signing of a bill by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The new regulator will focus on tightening oversight of gambling activities, including measures to combat gambling addiction and crack down on illegal operators. A dedicated ministry will also be introduced to oversee policy development within the sector. As part of the reforms, enhanced efforts will aim to restrict access to unlicensed gambling websites and mobile applications.
The legislation places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling. It includes provisions to combat gambling addiction, alongside strict limitations on gambling advertising. Under the new rules, gambling ads will be largely prohibited, with narrow exceptions for late-night TV and radio broadcasts, or platforms targeting audiences aged 21 and older. This reform comes amidst growing concerns over the societal impacts of gambling, as well as the integrity of the regulatory framework.
The move to dissolve the CRGL follows allegations against its head, Ivan Rudyi, who was detained last month over suspected ties to a Russian online casino. This incident has intensified scrutiny over the sector and accelerated the push for a more effective and transparent regulatory body.
In addition to domestic reforms, Ukraine’s gambling sector faces external challenges. In October, the Ukrainian Gambling Council (UGC) appealed to Google to reconsider its policy of blocking advertisements from licensed Ukrainian operators. The blanket ban has complicated efforts for regulated operators to reach their audiences, while unlicensed platforms continue to exploit these restrictions.
The establishment of a new regulatory body marks a pivotal step in Ukraine’s efforts to modernize and tighten control over its gambling industry. By prioritizing transparency, responsible gambling, and enforcement against illegal activities, the reforms aim to create a safer and more sustainable gambling environment. As these changes unfold, the sector will be closely watched to ensure the goals of the legislation are effectively realized.