Ukraine: Self-Exclusion Register Reaches 15,000 Users, Strengthening Gambling Harm Prevention Strategy

The number of individuals opting into self-exclusion programs has reached 15,000, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of responsible gambling frameworks. This upward trend signals that self-exclusion is no longer viewed as a symbolic measure, but as a practical and trusted tool for protecting players and addressing risky behavior at an early stage.

Prevention remains the cornerstone of effective gambling policy. Experts agree that mitigating the risks of gambling addiction is far more efficient than addressing its long-term consequences. In this context, voluntary exclusion registers, digital self-control features, and accessible support services are proving more effective than restrictive measures, which can inadvertently drive users toward unregulated markets.

Alongside these developments, authorities are working on a broader strategy to tackle gambling-related harm. Planned initiatives include comprehensive research to assess the true scale of addiction, public awareness campaigns to challenge common misconceptions, and the expansion of diagnostic tools such as PlayCity tests for early detection. These efforts aim to provide a data-driven foundation for policymaking while fostering greater awareness of gambling risks.

At the core of this approach is voluntary self-regulation. User-friendly online systems, streamlined registration processes, psychological assistance, and dedicated helplines form part of a “soft regulation” model that prioritizes player engagement over coercion. This model not only helps reduce relapse rates but also encourages better financial control among users.

From an industry perspective, the normalization of responsible gambling practices enhances trust in the regulated market and strengthens oversight capabilities. In this framework, self-exclusion emerges as more than an administrative tool—it becomes a key indicator of market maturity, where player protection is embedded into the system’s foundation and contributes to its long-term sustainability.