The rising cost of living and prices are the main factors driving Bulgarians to vote in the European elections, according to a newly published Eurobarometer survey. The survey, which gathered responses from over 26,000 individuals across all EU member states, highlights key concerns for voters in Bulgaria.

In Bulgaria, 56% of respondents cited rising prices and the cost of living as their primary motivation for voting, followed by 53% who mentioned the economic situation. These percentages are notably higher than the EU average, where 42% and 41% of respondents mentioned these concerns, respectively. Social protection, well-being, and access to healthcare ranked third among Bulgarian voters at 41%, compared to an EU average of 24%. The international situation followed, with 35% in Bulgaria, just slightly above the EU average of 34%.

Differences between Bulgaria and the EU are notable on issues like the environment and climate change, where only 12% of Bulgarians expressed concern compared to 28% in the EU. Similarly, defense and security were a priority for 19% in Bulgaria versus 28% in the EU, while migration and asylum were cited by 11% in Bulgaria compared to 28% EU-wide. On the other hand, 20% of Bulgarians are concerned about unemployment, higher than the EU average of 11%.

Despite the concerns, Bulgarian citizens have a slightly more optimistic view of the EU compared to the bloc’s average, with 53% of respondents agreeing that membership is beneficial—though this is the lowest percentage among EU countries. Job creation remains the leading benefit for 47% of Bulgarians.

While 56% of EU citizens believe their vote matters, only 42% of Bulgarians share this sentiment. Voter turnout in Bulgaria was also significantly lower than the EU average, with 33.78% of Bulgarians voting, compared to 50.74% across the EU.