Story perspectives

Bulgarian Government Scraps 2026 Budget Amid Protests

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Bulgarian government plans to withdraw its 2026 budget proposal after protests in Sofia, where about 50,000 demonstrators demand Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's resignation.
Protesters say the budget raises taxes and inflation and perpetuates corruption, reflecting seven snap elections since 2020.
After violent clashes, the cabinet will draft a new budget once Parliament formally withdraws the previous proposal, pending eurozone deficit requirements.

History

Historical Context

Bulgaria's political instability intensified in 2020, marked by mass protests against Prime Minister Boyko Borisov's government, which had been in power since 2009. Triggered by corruption scandals and a controversial budget proposal, these protests echoed earlier civil unrest, including the 2013 demonstrations that led to Borisov's resignation. The ongoing discontent reflects deep-rooted issues of governance and public trust in Bulgaria.

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Story summary

The Bulgarian government plans to withdraw its 2026 budget proposal after protests in Sofia, where about 50,000 demonstrators demand Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's resignation.
Protesters say the budget raises taxes and inflation and perpetuates corruption, reflecting seven snap elections since 2020.
After violent clashes, the cabinet will draft a new budget once Parliament formally withdraws the previous proposal, pending eurozone deficit requirements.

1 / 2