The Verkhovna Rada has passed a law to dissolve the Commission for Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL) and implement stricter regulations on gambling advertising, MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak has reported. The new regulatory body is expected to be established by 1 April 2025, with a designated ministry formulating policies for the gambling and lottery sector.
Advertising Restrictions:
- Gambling advertising is now prohibited, except on nighttime TV and radio and in media targeting audiences aged 21 and older.
- Advertisements on platforms and search engines must ensure their target audience is over 21.
- Using military personnel, volunteers, celebrities, or war-related themes in gambling advertisements is banned.
Sponsorship Rules:
- Sponsorship by gambling businesses is prohibited, with the exception of sports-related sponsorships.
This decision follows growing concerns over gambling’s societal impact, particularly on military personnel. In March, serviceman Pavlo Petrychenko submitted a petition urging restrictions on gambling ads and online casinos. He highlighted how stress led many soldiers to succumb to online gambling, losing significant sums.
The petition quickly garnered public support, prompting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to instruct the National Security and Defence Council (NSDC) and the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) to propose measures, including:
- Blocking illegal gambling websites.
- Introducing online monitoring and spending limits.
- Restricting access to gambling for military personnel during martial law.
Background on KRAIL:
KRAIL was established after gambling was legalised in 2020 but faced criticism for controversies, including licensing the Russian-linked 1XBet network. Calls for its liquidation began in 2022, with draft legislation introduced in May 2023.
The approved law not only dissolves KRAIL but also reflects broader restrictions aimed at addressing gambling addiction and preventing exploitation during martial law.
Legacy of Pavlo Petrychenko: Tragically, Petrychenko, whose advocacy spurred these reforms, passed away on 15 April. His efforts led to meaningful changes, highlighting the dangers of gambling in times of war.