President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a law that enhances control of the gambling market and provides for serious changes in the structure of regulation of this area. In particular, the new law proposes the liquidation of the Gambling and Lottery Regulation Commission and Lottery and the creation of a new authorized body that will be engaged in the formation of policy in gambling and lotteries. This step is part of the government's efforts to improve state control over gambling and fight against game addiction.
The law signed by the President was initiated by a group of deputies, including Danilo Getmantsev, Victoria Kinzburn and others. They emphasize that changes to the legislation are intended not only to improve the work of government bodies, but also to combat game dependence among the population. This is extremely important because the problem of ludomania, including among servicemen, has become one of the serious social problems.
The main provisions of the law include the following innovations: liquidation of downs: by April 1, 2025, a new body should be created to replace the Gambling Regulation Commission, which will determine the policy in the field of grill business and lotteries. Fighting aggressive advertising: the law imposes restrictions on casino advertising, in particular, it is forbidden to use the symbolism of the Armed Forces and other military formations in gambling. Restrictions for players: Registration of several accounts for one player in the online casino is now forbidden. In addition, additional criteria for cancellation of licenses of gambling operators and strengthening requirements for the business reputation of their management are introduced. Control over vulnerable categories of the population: the law provides for the introduction of new tools to restrict access to gambling establishments for vulnerable population groups, in particular, for the period of martial law. This also includes the introduction of mechanisms to include persons in the register of persons who are restricted to gambling. Prohibition of gambling advertising: under the new law, gambling advertising is prohibited, except for certain conditions. Advertising can only be broadcast at night at television and radio stations for people over 21, as well as on online platforms where the main target audience is adults. Non -cash payments through banks: the law sets out that all non -cash payments in the gambling business are made solely through banks, which will reduce the volume of shadow payments and strengthen financial control.
An important impetus for the development of this bill was the appeal of the serviceman Pavel Petrichenko to President Zelensky, in which he raised the problem of Ludmania among the military. According to him, many soldiers, being on the forefront, have a dependence on gambling, which significantly affects their moral status and efficiency of service. This problem has become one of the main reasons for the legislators to pay attention to the need for changes in the gaming industry.
This law has a significant impact on social well -being in Ukraine. The ban on aggressive gambling advertising, restricting access to gambling establishments for vulnerable categories of the population and strengthening control over the business reputation of gambling operators are steps that should help reduce the level of play dependence in the country. Considering the situation with the war, these measures are of particular relevance, as they can help maintain the mental health of people, especially among those who are at risk.
