Bulgaria Withdraws 2026 Budget Amid Widespread Protests Over Corruption and Economic Concerns
SOFIA, Bulgaria — December 4, 2025 — Bulgaria’s government has withdrawn its proposed 2026 budget following large-scale protests led primarily by young citizens who accuse officials of concealing widespread corruption and express concerns over the country’s economic future. Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Sofia and other cities across Bulgaria to oppose the draft budget, which included tax hikes and increased social security contributions.
The protests, driven largely by Generation Z activists, reflect growing dissatisfaction with the government’s policies as Bulgaria approaches its planned adoption of the euro in early 2026. Business groups and opposition members also criticized the budget, warning it could harm the nation’s economy during this critical transition.
Daniel Lorer, a member of Bulgaria’s parliament, told Fox News Digital that the young protesters want a “renewed, different, corruption-free Bulgaria” and are demanding reforms. He said the government had refused to listen, instead proposing a budget that extended previous policies funded by higher taxes and more debt.
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov acknowledged the protests and announced the government’s decision to drop the most contentious elements of the budget, including the proposed tax and social security increases. He said a new budget would be introduced at a later date.
“The government saw what the citizens who protested had to say,” Zhelyazkov said at a press conference. “I support these people who protest for more rights, more democracy, more justice. We believe that the protest is not so much political, but more of a social, human side, in search of more dialogue, more tolerance, and more harmony in social relations.”
He added that the protests represent a visible expression of young people seeking their place in Bulgaria’s future, and that the government is obliged to respond accordingly while managing the country’s financial resources.
While the demonstrations were mostly peaceful, some masked protesters clashed with police after attacking offices of the ruling party in Sofia. The unrest comes amid concerns about political stability in Bulgaria, a country with historical ties to Russia, where authorities remain vigilant against potential foreign interference.
The protests highlight the challenges Bulgaria faces as it prepares to join the Eurozone, balancing economic reforms with public demands for transparency and accountability.
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