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politics12h ago
Bulgaria sees massive protests against budget, corruption – DW – 12/02/2025
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- Mass protests in Sofia and other Bulgarian cities surged as tens of thousands gathered, signaling the largest demonstrations in years against the 2026 budget and governance.
- Demonstrators demanded the withdrawal of the 2026 budget and criticized tax and social security hikes tied to concerns about corruption.
- In central Sofia, organizers claimed up to 50,000 attendees in front of the National Assembly, underscoring broad public backing for reform.
- Protest imagery included banners like 'Generation Z is coming' and 'Young Bulgaria without the mafia,' signaling a youthful push for change.
- Violence erupted after the main rally: clashes, burning rubbish containers, and arrests drew international attention to the protests.
- President Rumen Radev urged an end to violence and called for resignation and early elections as a path forward.
- The protests targeted Bulgaria’s minority coalition government formed by GERB, the Bulgarian Socialist Party, and ITN, amid graft concerns.
- Critics warned the 2026 budget could deepen economic woes as Bulgaria eyes Eurozone entry in 2026, amid fears of graft and wasted public funds.
- Protests included vandalism of political party headquarters and confrontations with police, reflecting escalating tensions.
- Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov pledged to withdraw the 2026 draft budget and craft a new one in response to public outcry.
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