Fewer Babies, Older Parents: Bulgaria Faces Sharp Decline in Births Since 1994
Bulgaria’s birth rate has declined by one-third over the past three decades
For the third consecutive day, Bulgarian farmers have taken to the streets in widespread protests, causing disruptions to traffic and demanding significant legislative changes to address their grievances. Organized demonstrations have sprung up near various regional cities, including Stara Zagora, Pernik, Ruse, Kyustendil, Shumen, and Targovishte, with agricultural workers voicing their frustrations over industry regulations and financial support.
The protests, initially sparked by concerns over industry regulations and financial aid, have evolved into a broader movement calling for legislative reforms to ensure the security and financial stability of farmers. Key demands include revisions to the terms of the European Union's Green Deal and financial assistance of BGN 20 per acre due to the economic fallout from the war in Ukraine.
Despite efforts by Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov to address the crisis through a new memorandum and invitations for talks, farmers remain resolute in their demands, insisting that the blockades will continue until their grievances are addressed.
Using heavy machinery to block roads, farmers have caused significant disruptions to traffic flow, particularly on vital routes such as the main Sofia-Varna road and other key highways. These blockades have resulted in convoys of cars being diverted and intermittent passage for ambulances and buses.
Tensions between farmers and authorities have escalated in some regions, with clashes reported. In Ruse, protesters blocked the Danube Bridge and set fire to straw bales, while in Targovishte, a hemodialysis patient's ambulance was delayed due to the demonstration.
The company responsible for separate waste collection in Sofia, Ecobulpak AD, has informed the Sofia Municipality that it intends to stop collecting recyclable materials from colored containers in 18 districts of the city
Former finance minister and co-leader of "We Continue the Change" Asen Vassilev sharply criticized the draft 2026 state budget, describing it as an unprecedented act of financial pressure on citizens and businesses
GERB leader Boyko Borissov declared that he “never lies” and stood by his earlier remarks about discussing the lifting of the Magnitsky sanctions with certain individuals
Ivaylo Mirchev, co-chair of "Yes, Bulgaria", revealed that heads of several state institutions awarded themselves and their colleagues massive bonuses last year
GERB leader Boyko Borissov ruled out any possibility of adjustments to the parameters of the draft budget for 2026, despite criticism from within the coalition and opposition parties
GERB leader Boyko Borissov firmly stated in parliament that the 2026 state budget will neither be amended nor withdrawn, despite growing criticism from opposition parties and economists
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