Approximately 40% of asylum seekers in Bulgaria perceive themselves as vulnerable.

The strongest effect could be sensed among children, young adults, pregnant women, elderly people and those that went through physical or psychological torture and violence, the Bulgarian National Radio reported.

The announcement was made in a report by two non-governmental organizations in the country.

Center for Legal Aid, Voice in Bulgaria and Assistance Center for Torture Survivors have interviewed 478 refugees currently residing in Bulgaria.

According to the report findings, only 7% of them have went through an identification procedure and merely 6% have been directed to an organization that would tend to their particular needs.

The majority of people surveyed were Syrian citizens, and a total of 18 countries were represented.

A portion of the interviewed said that during their meetings with representatives of the State Agency for Refugees in Bulgaria, they have been addressed with racist comments.

The also mentioned that overall communication with the agency officers has been difficult.