This September, one of the largest events in the gaming and technology industries — SBC Summit Lisbon 2025 — took place in Portugal’s capital. Over 30,000 participants from 150 countries gathered to showcase innovations and discuss key trends in the gaming sector. A particular focus was placed on player behavior monitoring, protection of players’ rights, and gambling addiction prevention.
Ukraine was represented by an expert delegation including members of the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the National Social Service of Ukraine, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, and the Responsible Gaming Center (RGC). The group came to study how player protection systems work in other countries and how this experience could be effectively implemented at home. For Ukraine, this marks an important step toward building a comprehensive national program for gambling addiction prevention.
The visit was made possible through the international knowledge exchange program organized by the Responsible Gaming Center with the support of FAVBET, the project’s general patron. The initiative brings together government institutions, mental health experts, and industry representatives.
European Practices That Can Transform Ukraine
The summit featured dozens of thematic zones covering the most relevant topics in the industry. One of the most dynamic was the Player Protection Zone, where experts shared experiences and discussed how Big Data and AI technologies are used to detect early signs of gambling addiction.
The Ukrainian delegation was particularly interested in the UK’s player protection model — the GAMSTOP system, which allows users to voluntarily block access to all licensed gambling operators simultaneously. Similar approaches are already being considered for adaptation in Ukraine, with adjustments to national conditions.
Experts also presented digital tools for player support, including apps for emotional stabilization and online platforms for group therapy.
Ukraine has already laid a solid foundation for responsible gaming: a national social standard is in place, operators are required to set mandatory limits, and the government and business sector work together to create a safer environment for players. However, international experience provides new perspectives and shows where the system can be further improved.
“This was not just a summit — it was a space where new approaches are born. We are bringing home ideas that can reshape our legislation, business models, and player support systems”, — said Tetiana Synytska, Head of the Psychological Division at the Responsible Gaming Center (RGC).
Participation in SBC Summit Lisbon became another step toward forming a national strategy for responsible gaming that aligns with international standards while addressing Ukraine’s local challenges. Following Lisbon, the Ukrainian team is planning study visits to Sweden, Lithuania, and Estonia to explore rehabilitation centers and regulatory systems in the gaming sector.
Business Supporting a Culture of Responsibility
FAVBET continues to support RGC’s efforts in international cooperation and knowledge exchange. This partnership between business, state, and civil institutions exemplifies how gaming operators can actively contribute to building a responsible and sustainable market in Ukraine.
As part of a previous joint initiative, RGC launched “Prostir Zhyttia” (Space of Life) — the first psychological support center for players in Ukraine.
“Experience from global summits like SBC helps us create an effective, human-centered system in Ukraine — one that combines technology, empathy, and state coordination. Our support for such social initiatives is an investment in the culture of responsible gaming”, — commented representatives of FAVBET.
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