Parimatch, a renowned gambling firm, may yet escape the prohibitions applied by the Ukrainian government previously this year. This possibility arises following a request for these restrictions to be removed, a request that has received over 25,000 supporters.
Collecting Signatures Prior to the Final Period
Parimatch is among 287 businesses and 120 individuals, who were banned for the upcoming 50 years from operating in Ukraine. A Presidential decree in March initiated this, stating these entities were exploiting gambling tactics, thereby acting counterproductively towards the country.
Ever since this order, the firm discontinued its activities, leaving numerous customer accounts in a state of suspension. However, the current petition brings a promise for the lifting of these sanctions. As per Ukrainian legislation, a public appeal that has been backed by 25,000 supporters must be presented to the president for scrutiny, granting the president a window of 10 days for a response.
Maxym Liashko, a managing partner at Energame, stated that this petition indicates a consensus among the citizens of Ukraine, agreeing that the individuals behind Parimatch are “true Ukrainian patriots”. These individuals have consistently supported their nation since the first day of the Russian invasion. Energame is recognized as the management firm of Parimatch.
Correcting the Past Oversight
Upon sanctions, Parimatch, a bookmaker based in Ukraine, promptly initiated measures “to put an end to any persistent connections with the hostile nation” and severed its relationships with external Russian entities. Liashko maintains that the inclusion of Parimatch in the list of sanctioned entities was an error, a sentiment echoed by the Ukrainian Gambling Council (UGC).
It is agreed by all that Ukrainian authorities hold the right and responsibility to impose sanctions on entities or individuals that pose a threat to the nation.
Maxym Liashko, managing partner, Energame
Liashko emphasized the crucial role of sanctions as a defense strategy against Russia. However, he also mentioned that “errors can occur occasionally,” implying that every sanction policy should adopt “a comprehensive review and appeal procedure” to amend such mistakes.
At the time of the sanctions, Parimatch staunchly refuted any allegations connecting its business operations with those of Russia. Later, the gaming operator supplied independent legal expertise affirming that all external license agreements with Russian entities were duly terminated in March.
Since the beginning of the war in February 2022, Parimatch has contributed more than UAH 547 million ($14 million) and supported various initiatives to assist Ukrainian citizens displaced by the conflict, including offering them employment opportunities.
In a statement, Parimatch asserted that “as a global establishment with deep Ukrainian origins,” they remain committed to continuously supporting Ukraine in reclaiming its sovereignty.
