Bulgaria is experiencing considerable political instability with five elections in two years, caused by government crises and difficulties in forming coalitions. Anti-corruption and reforms dominate the political agenda, while upcoming elections in 2024 could affect the country's European integration and Eurozone ambitions. Read the latest Bulgaria news from the Table.Briefings editorial team here. What is the political situation in Bulgaria? The political situation in Bulgaria is currently characterized by considerable instability. The country has held five elections in the last two years, indicating ongoing government crises and difficulties in forming stable coalitions. In 2021, a coalition led by the We Continue the Change party and its co-founder Kiril Petkov was able to form a government, but was later toppled by a vote of no confidence. This led to further elections and political upheaval. A key problem plaguing Bulgaria's political landscape is the ongoing fight against corruption and the implementation of necessary reforms. Petkov's government, which focused on fighting corruption, lost the support of key coalition partners on budgetary issues and matters of national interest, leading to its downfall. In this tense political atmosphere, Bulgaria is expected to hold parliamentary and European elections simultaneously on June 9, 2024. The ongoing political turmoil could have a significant impact on Bulgaria's efforts to become more closely integrated into European integration and join the Eurozone. How was the government in Bulgaria overthrown in 2022? The government in Bulgaria was overthrown in 2022 by a vote of no confidence. This was a direct result of political instability and the fragmented nature of the Bulgarian parliament. The government under Prime Minister Kiril Petkov, which had only taken power in December 2021, was brought to an end by this vote of no confidence in June 2022. Petkov had taken office with the promise to fight corruption and implement necessary reforms. However, the withdrawal of support from the populist party "There is such a people" (ITN) led to a weakening of his government. ITN withdrew from the coalition after disagreements with Petkov over the revised state budget and other political issues. The main opposition party GERB and other members of parliament continued to criticize the government for its failures in economic and fiscal policy, which eventually led to a vote of no confidence. The vote of no confidence was passed with 123 votes against 116, bringing down Petkov's government and plunging the country into another political crisis. What is the relationship between the EU and Bulgaria? The relationship between the European Union (EU) and Bulgaria is complex and characterized by various factors, especially in the context of Bulgaria's political and economic development. EU membership and integration: Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007. Since then, the country has made progress in various areas such as legal certainty, the economy and the fight against corruption in order to meet EU standards. The EU continues to support Bulgaria through financial assistance and structural funds to promote its development and deepen its integration into the EU. Rule of law and anti-corruption: One of the most important issues in the relationship between the EU and Bulgaria is the rule of law and the fight against corruption. Despite efforts, corruption remains a significant problem in Bulgaria and the EU has repeatedly called for reforms to improve transparency and accountability. Economic relations: Economically, Bulgaria benefits from its EU membership through access to the single market and investment. The EU is Bulgaria's largest trading partner and Bulgarian products, especially agricultural products, benefit from access to the markets of other EU countries. Security policy and defense: Bulgaria works closely with the EU on security policy issues, particularly in the context of the Common Foreign and Security Policy. Bulgaria is also part of EU initiatives to strengthen collective defense and security, including the response to regional conflicts and crises. Overall, the relationship between Bulgaria and the EU remains a priority for both the Bulgarian government and the EU, with a focus on further integration, economic development and improving the rule of law. What is the relationship between Germany and Bulgaria like? The relationship between Germany and Bulgaria is characterized by a strong bilateral partnership within the European Union. Germany is one of Bulgaria's largest trading partners and plays a significant role in the country's economic development through investment and trade. In addition, Germany supports Bulgaria in areas such as the rule of law and the fight against corruption, which is part of EU integration efforts. Germany is also involved in cultural and educational exchange programs that contribute to strengthening relations. Cooperation extends to various sectors, including energy, infrastructure and technology, with German companies often acting as investors and partners in Bulgaria. As part of both countries' EU membership, they support common European policies and values, work together on international affairs and promote regional stability in South East Europe. This cooperation reflects the common interest in a stable and prosperous European community.
Bulgaria to joint the eurozone: Probably without a national budget in euros
Mass protests in Bulgaria force the government to withdraw the first national budge in the common currency. This means accession to the eurozone in 2026 will probably take place with the old budget in leva.
By Frank Stier