Bulgaria’s government has decided to retract its controversial budget plan for 2026 after massive protests erupted, with tens of thousands expressing their anger in Sofia and other cities. Many of the demonstrators are young people who believe the government is hiding widespread corruption. Business groups and opposition politicians are also voicing concerns that the budget could negatively affect Bulgaria’s economy, especially with the nation set to join the eurozone in early 2026.
“Gen Z is showing up because they want to stay in Bulgaria, but they’re looking for a different, corruption-free version of it,” said Bulgarian parliament member Daniel Lorer during a discussion.
Amid these protests, the government, under Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, announced it would drop the most controversial aspects of the budget, including proposed tax hikes. The Prime Minister indicated that a revised budget would be presented later.
“The government has recognized the feelings of those protesting. I back those fighting for more rights, democracy, and justice. This isn’t merely a political protest—it’s a social cry for dialogue and harmony,” Zhelyazkov stated at a press conference.
He added that the protests primarily reflect the hopes of young Bulgarians regarding their future in the country, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to pay attention to these voices.
While most demonstrations were peaceful, some protesters clashed with police after breaching the governing party’s offices in Sofia.
Bulgaria’s political landscape is delicate, compounded by the ongoing tensions with Russia. “Russia often capitalizes on any unrest in EU states, particularly those within its former sphere of influence,” Lorer warned.
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, who holds a mostly symbolic role, aligned himself with the opposition in denouncing the budget and called for the government to step down and prompt early elections.
Ruslan Stefanov from the Sofia Center for Democratic Studies pointed out that this situation could lead to a political impasse and potentially weaken Bulgaria’s ties with NATO and the EU. He noted, “Radev, who has links to the Kremlin and is against adopting the euro, might still obstruct this process, despite it being legally approved. This poses risks to stability and may trigger Russian interference.”
Set to join the eurozone in January 2026, Bulgaria’s decision has sparked mixed feelings among its citizens, many of whom are unsettled by inflation and the rising cost of living affecting their daily lives.
Since becoming an EU member in 2007 and starting the eurozone accession process in 2018, skepticism regarding the monetary union has been prevalent, with numerous Bulgarians doubting that it will enhance their economic situation. Experts suggest that as the date approaches, there may be ongoing attempts—possibly influenced by Russia—to undermine public trust and stir dissent through social media campaigns.
