Bulgaria’s Employment Strategy Struggles to Shift Focus from Temporary Subsidies to Long-Term Skills
Bulgaria’s Ministry of Labor and Social Policy released its National Employment Action Plan (NAP) for 2025 in early May,
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev criticized the influence of the oligarchy in the country, referencing the "Magnitsky-sanctioned figures" who he believes are undermining the state. He pointed out how certain powerful individuals manage to acquire state assets with little resistance, highlighting an instance where a building in Sofia was swiftly handed over to the "DPS - New Beginning" party. While not directly naming Delyan Peevski, the leader of the party, Radev made it clear whom he was referring to, stressing that such actions undermine the rule of law.
Radev further condemned the political environment in Bulgaria, accusing politicians of fostering corruption within institutions, which he says have turned into corrupt "clubs." He expressed concern over the capture of businesses, the protection of key figures involved in the collapse of Corporate Commercial Bank, and the degradation of the country’s political integrity. According to Radev, this pattern of behavior contributes to the weakening of Bulgaria’s statehood.
In a separate comment, the president refrained from discussing the potential election of Silvi Kirilov, the oldest MP, as Speaker of Parliament, a proposal backed by the "There Is Such a People" (TISP) party. Although the idea has garnered some support, including from "We Continue the Change - Democratic Bulgaria" (WCC-DB), Radev urged that further talks be held between parties before any decision is made.
Radev also expressed his hope that Bulgaria and Europe would soon find security, mentioning that the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president could help bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for all politicians to recognize the critical situation the country faces and prioritize forming a working government over merely postponing the issue until the next election.
Bulgaria has received full support from Austria regarding its accession to the eurozone, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced following his meeting with Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker in Vienna.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemns Israel’s attacks on Iran, calling for international action:
The public discussion around Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro remains clouded by persistent myths and misinformation, according to MP Martin Dimitrov from "We Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria"
Israel has launched a large-scale military operation against Iran, striking what it claims are nuclear and military targets.
Bulgarian Interior Minister Daniel Mitov has removed Senior Commissioner Andrey Angelov from his post as head of Varna’s police
A demonstration is taking place in Sofia today, organized by an initiative committee backed by the "Revival" party.
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