Bulgaria’s government has resigned after less than a year in office, a decision announced on Thursday by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov amid ongoing protests against its economic policies and perceived corruption issues. This significant political shift comes as the country prepares to join the euro zone on January 1, merely weeks away from this milestone.
In a televised address just before a scheduled vote on a no-confidence motion in parliament, Zhelyazkov stated, “Our coalition met, we discussed the current situation, the challenges we face and the decisions we must responsibly make,” confirming the government’s resignation.
Recent protests, with thousands of participants in Sofia and other cities, signify widespread dissatisfaction among the populace. Demonstrators have voiced their discontent over what they describe as “endemic graft,” calling for accountability and reform. Zhelyazkov acknowledged that the protests conveyed a message against “arrogance and conceit,” characterizing them as not merely a clash of political views but an expression of collective societal values.
The protests have been predominantly driven by younger, urban professionals who advocate for Bulgaria’s deeper integration into European structures and express strong support for the forthcoming euro zone accession. Despite this, Bulgaria continues to grapple with economic challenges and is recognized as the poorest and most corrupt member of the European Union since its entry in 2007.
As the political landscape shifts, Bulgaria faces a crucial period ahead, where addressing its internal issues could pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future among its European peers. The hope is that the resignation may catalyze meaningful reforms and restore public trust in governance.