Bulgaria Sees Record Influx of Non-EU Workers, but Labor Shortages Persist
Bulgaria has seen a record influx of workers from non-EU countries in recent years, yet the demand for labor in various industries remains unmet
Boyko Borissov, leader of the GERB Party, firmly stated that Bulgaria’s entry into the eurozone would position the country among the "white" nations. He emphasized that achieving this goal requires a political solution, and pointed out that the country has been stagnant for the past four years. Borissov criticized the current state of affairs, urging business owners and working people to take note of the challenges GERB is facing.
On the topic of pensions, Borissov acknowledged that GERB is prepared to raise pensions by 10%, but noted that the current pension system is flawed. His comments followed opposition criticism over the decision to increase pensions by only 5%. He argued that each party has the right to voice their support for whatever policies they deem appropriate, but warned that without a budget, all efforts would be in vain.
Borissov also addressed the current budget debate, calling on the "We Continue the Change" (WCC) and "Democratic Bulgaria" (DB) parties to provide their commentary on the financial plan. He reiterated that many political moves are being made with the eurozone goal in mind. Reflecting on the last few years, Borissov expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as "wild populism" that had dominated the country.
In his remarks on the international situation, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine, Borissov stressed the need for cooperation between the United States and Europe. He noted that Europe, especially from an economic perspective, has endured significant losses, and the future remains uncertain regarding potential agreements between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine.
Turning to the government, Borissov referred to it as a "rescue cabinet" and criticized populist politicians who merely speak without taking action. He admitted that he had not read the governing program of Prime Minister Zhelyazkov's cabinet but questioned the productivity of WCC-DB, claiming that they are simply engaged in talk rather than concrete action.
Sources:
Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, the Commanding General of the U.S. Army’s V Corps, visited Bulgaria from March 13-15
Delyan Peevski, leader of the "DPS – New Beginning" party, declared his commitment to "safeguarding Bulgaria from forces aiming to undermine the country"
The Bulgarian Constitutional Court has confirmed suspicions of electoral fraud benefiting "DPS - New Beginning," led by Delyan Peevski
The Bulgarian Constitutional Court has declared the election of 16 members of parliament invalid following a review of the election process
Bulgarian President Rumen Radev emphasized the need for a radical change in the electoral process, arguing that full implementation of machine voting could help restore public trust in elections
Boyko Borissov has warned that if the "Greatness" party enters parliament, it could jeopardize Bulgaria's chances of joining the eurozone
Bulgaria's Perperikon: A European Counterpart to Peru's Machu Picchu
Bulgarians Among EU's Least Frequent Vacationers, Struggling with Affordability