Bulgarians Rally Against Corruption Amid Euro Adoption

Thousands of Bulgarians protested against their minority government, accusing it of failing to address widespread corruption. As Bulgaria prepares to adopt the euro, demonstrations call for governmental resignation and judicial reform. Despite government concessions, protests continue amid political and social divides, with calls for an end to oligarchic influence.

On Wednesday night, thousands of Bulgarians took to the streets, voicing their dissatisfaction with the minority government and its inability to combat endemic corruption. The protests, spreading across Sofia and other cities, coincide with preparations for Bulgaria's euro adoption on January 1.

Protesters projected messages such as "Resignation", "Mafia Out", and "For Fair Elections" onto the parliament building, highlighting demands for judicial reform. A vote of no-confidence against Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov's government looms, further fueled by social security and tax hike plans that were met with public outrage, forcing the withdrawal of the 2026 budget draft.

Despite the government's budget retreat, protests persist, reflecting Bulgaria's political instability, marked by seven national elections over four years. Former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov's declaration that the coalition will not resign until eurozone membership underscores the ongoing tension. Reformist factions promise to continue the euro adoption efforts, regardless of the government's fate.

(With inputs from agencies.)