A government-backed survey has illuminated that most online casino players in Ukraine are now favoring licensed operators. Conducted by the SOCIOINFORM Sociological Centre from May 19 to June 26, 2026, and commissioned by Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation, this extensive survey involved 2,676 participants. Its findings underscore the shift towards legality in gambling preferences, supported further by the Centre for Responsible Gaming and the Association of Ukrainian Gambling Operators.
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High Levels of Channelisation
A striking 86% of respondents expressed a preference for licensed online casinos, with 78% indicating no plans to use unlicensed operators. Even so, some informal gambling activities persistβabout one in five players knows someone engaging with illegal sites. Still, motivations for such choices include the convenience of quick registration (33%), the desire for anonymity (17%), and minimal restrictions (16%).
Participant Demographics
The survey revealed that Ukraine’s online gambling audience is largely middle-income and educated. Approximately 42% of respondents have higher education, and 38% possess secondary specialized education. Income levels are generally moderate, with 31% earning between 11,000 and 30,000 hryvnias monthly, and 25% between 31,000 and 50,000 hryvnias. Notably, 73% of the sample were male, and males reported more extensive gambling experience than females. Even before the recent market liberalization, these players had already been active in the gambling scene.
Motivations and Challenges
Curiosity and excitement drive 40% of online casino players, while 21% see gambling as a respite from daily life. However, 35% admit to occasional loss of control over their gambling habits, with 6% saying it happens frequently. Nearly 25% reported chasing losses, highlighting the ongoing challenge of maintaining balance. These findings contrast with an earlier survey by PlayCity, Ukraine’s state gambling regulator, which found 70% of players motivated by monetary gain.
Awareness of Responsible Gaming Tools
Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation is pushing the Strategy to Combat Gambling Addiction through 2035, focusing on prevention and support. Despite this, the survey shows gaps in players’ awareness of responsible gaming tools. While two-thirds know about self-control features, only 13% are aware of the availability of gaming statistics, and about 11% know the legal gambling age. Still, playCity’s previous survey showed slightly higher awareness, indicating a need for better communication and education on these tools.
Trust and Regulatory Environment
Trust in Ukraine’s gambling regulation is mixed, with 53% believing in adequate regulation. PlayCity, which issued around 250 licenses in its first year, has announced a crackdown on illegal gambling activities. Still, new initiatives include collaboration with social platforms like Kick to curb the promotion of unlicensed gambling. The Ministry of Digital Transformation and PlayCity enjoy 44% trust from respondents, though only a minority are well-informed about their roles. The Ministry is expected to roll out further strategies aimed at enhancing regulatory frameworks and public awareness in the coming months. The next steps involve more strong enforcement and community engagement to address the less-savvy segments of the gambling community.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
