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Archived edition · September 11, 2026 Today's news →

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Bulgaria

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Taxes 💸

Property taxes rise, education lags, and judicial influence grows.

Bulgarians face significant economic changes as plans emerge to double property tax assessments by 2029. This comes alongside a substantial 50% jump in minimum insurance thresholds for certain professions within a single month, signaling a notable shift in employment costs and social security contributions.

The education sector continues to grapple with challenges, highlighted by a PISA 2025 report indicating that 30% of students view school as a waste of time. Experts are now outlining concrete solutions to address these declining engagement levels and translate assessment results into meaningful improvements.

Concerns over the integrity of the judicial system are also in the spotlight, with the Minister of Justice reporting indications of attempts to influence the Supreme Judicial Council selection process. This development is further underscored by a former European prosecutor initiating legal action against the Council, adding to ongoing discussions about judicial reform.

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Education Crisis: PISA 2025 Results and Solutions

New details from the PISA 2025 report reveal that a significant 30% of Bulgarian students consider school a waste of their time, highlighting deep-seated issues in educational engagement. Experts are now coming forward with concrete solutions to address these findings and drive meaningful improvements within the national education system.

Judicial Council Under Scrutiny Amid Influence Allegations and Lawsuit

Bulgaria's Minister of Justice, Nikolay Naydenov, has stated that there are indications of attempts by members of the judiciary to influence the selection process for the Supreme Judicial Council. This comes as a former European prosecutor has initiated legal action against the Council, further intensifying the debate around judicial integrity and reforms.

Presidential Controversies: Pardon and Ukraine Stances

The political sphere is stirred by a political party recalling President Iliana Iotova's past pardon of a prominent drug trafficker. Concurrently, the differing positions of President Iotova and Prime Minister Rumen Radev regarding the war and peace in Ukraine are being examined, highlighting a political divergence on a key international issue.

Military Funding Shift and NATO Anti-Drone Stance

A notable financial reallocation has occurred for military purposes, with 100 million Bulgarian leva being converted or equated to 100 million euros. In a separate development concerning national defense, Bulgaria has announced its decision not to participate in NATO's anti-drone initiative, signaling a specific stance on collective defense technology.

Lukoil Neftochim Fined for Burgas Pollution

Lukoil Neftochim is facing financial penalties for causing air pollution in the city of Burgas, indicating enforcement action against corporate environmental breaches.

Competition for Digital Infrastructure Control

A subtle yet significant competition is unfolding for the control and development of Bulgaria's digital infrastructure, referred to as the country's 'digital highways'.

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