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Bulgaria to Adopt Euro Amid Mixed Public Sentiment

2/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bulgaria will switch from the lev to the euro on February 4, 2026, becoming the 21st eurozone member.
Public opinion is mixed, with some expressing nostalgia for the lev, which has been used since the 1880s.
Rossen Jeliazkov (Outgoing Prime Minister) acknowledged initial difficulties but cited long-term benefits of adopting the euro.
The country faces political instability after several government changes, and protests highlight concerns over corruption and economic management.

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Story summary

Bulgaria will switch from the lev to the euro on February 4, 2026, becoming the 21st eurozone member.
Public opinion is mixed, with some expressing nostalgia for the lev, which has been used since the 1880s.
Rossen Jeliazkov (Outgoing Prime Minister) acknowledged initial difficulties but cited long-term benefits of adopting the euro.
The country faces political instability after several government changes, and protests highlight concerns over corruption and economic management.