Ukraine Survey Finds Low Gambling Participation but Strong Support for Stricter Rules

Ukraine Survey Shows 84% Do Not Gamble as Majority Calls for Stricter Regulation – Regulator PlayCity Highlights Gap Between Participation and Public Opinion

Key Takeaways

• 84% of surveyed Ukrainians said they do not classify themselves as gamblers.
• Only 5% reported gambling in the past 12 months, and 2% in the past 30 days.
• 74% support stronger player protection measures, and 67% want more regulation overall.
• The survey was commissioned by regulator PlayCity and involved 3,164 respondents.
• The first phase of a broader report on gambling’s societal impact is expected in August.

Low Self Reported Gambling Participation Across Survey Pool

A study commissioned by Ukraine’s gambling regulator PlayCity indicates that most Ukrainians do not actively participate in gambling activities. According to the results, 84% of respondents said they do not consider themselves gamblers.

The survey was based on responses from 3,164 individuals. PlayCity stated that the sample was divided by age, gender, place of residence, and whether respondents were active military personnel. However, the full methodology and detailed breakdown of the study have not been made publicly available.

When asked about recent activity, only 5% of respondents said they had gambled within the past 12 months. An even smaller share, 2%, reported gambling within the last 30 days. In addition, one in three participants stated that they do not know anyone in their personal circle who gambles.

The findings suggest that, within this survey group, gambling participation remains limited. For users monitoring regulatory developments in Eastern Europe, the figures provide a data point on how widespread gambling activity may be perceived within the country.

No Higher Gambling Rates Among Internally Displaced People

The survey also addressed concerns related to the ongoing war with Russia. According to PlayCity, the data shows no evidence that internally displaced people exhibit higher gambling participation rates than the national average.

This aspect of the study touches on a commonly raised question in conflict affected environments, namely whether displacement and related stress factors lead to increased gambling activity. Based on the reported findings, PlayCity concluded that such a pattern is not visible in the surveyed population.

For policymakers and operators, this element is relevant because regulatory approaches often consider potential vulnerabilities among specific population groups. The survey’s first phase does not indicate elevated gambling participation among displaced individuals compared to overall levels reported in the study.

Strong Public Support for Tighter Oversight and Player Protection

Despite the relatively low self reported gambling participation, respondents expressed clear views on how the sector should be regulated.

According to the results, 74% of participants are in favor of stronger player protection measures. In addition, 67% said they would like to see more regulation overall. These figures point to broad support for a more tightly controlled gambling framework, even among a population where most respondents do not identify as active gamblers.

When asked about specific regulatory priorities, respondents highlighted several areas. Stronger oversight of existing iGaming laws was cited by 29% of participants. Another 27% pointed to the need for more action against the illegal gambling market. Tougher age restrictions were mentioned by 19%, while 15% called for expanded responsible gambling education campaigns.

For international operators and users of comparison platforms, these preferences indicate which regulatory levers may receive increased attention from Ukrainian authorities. Oversight of existing laws and enforcement against unlicensed operators appear to be among the most prominent public concerns.

Financial Motivation and Excitement Identified as Main Drivers

The study also explored why people believe individuals choose to gamble. Around 70% of respondents identified the desire to win money as the main incentive. Excitement was the second most frequently cited factor, mentioned by 41%.

A smaller share of participants pointed to external influences. Approximately 17% said that advertising or the need for distraction motivates people to gamble.

These findings reflect perceptions of gambling motivations rather than measured behavior. For market observers, the results illustrate how gambling is viewed socially, particularly in terms of financial expectations and entertainment value.

Part of a Broader Assessment Led by PlayCity and Ministry of Digital Affairs

PlayCity conducted the survey in collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Affairs. The published results represent the first phase of a larger report that will assess the impact of gambling on society.

According to the regulator, the full report is expected to be released in August. Further details, including additional data and analysis, may provide more comprehensive insight into participation rates, social attitudes, and regulatory implications.

For stakeholders in the iGaming sector, including crypto betting and online casino users evaluating market stability and compliance standards, the forthcoming report could clarify how Ukrainian authorities intend to align public opinion with regulatory policy.

Our Assessment

The PlayCity commissioned survey shows a clear gap between low self reported gambling participation and strong public support for stricter regulation. While only a small minority of respondents reported recent gambling activity, large majorities favor enhanced player protection, stronger oversight of iGaming laws, and action against illegal operators. The results form the first phase of a broader governmental review of gambling’s societal impact, with a full report expected in August.