Story perspectives

Bulgaria Protests Force Government to Withdraw Budget Plans

12/2/2025

Summary

Story summary

Tens of thousands protested in Bulgaria on December 1, prompting the government to withdraw its budget proposals the next day.
Demonstrators filled Independence Square and urged the government to resign amid anger over corruption and economic issues.
Protester Alexander Karatov criticized the lack of transparency in social-security payments and taxes.
Opposition parties demand snap elections and say Bulgaria's ranking as the EU's second-most corrupt country fuels unrest.

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Story summary

Tens of thousands protested in Bulgaria on December 1, prompting the government to withdraw its budget proposals the next day.
Demonstrators filled Independence Square and urged the government to resign amid anger over corruption and economic issues.
Protester Alexander Karatov criticized the lack of transparency in social-security payments and taxes.
Opposition parties demand snap elections and say Bulgaria's ranking as the EU's second-most corrupt country fuels unrest.