Inside Bulgaria's Easter Celebrations: Traditions Passed Through Generations
Today marks the joyous celebration of Easter, one of the most significant holidays in the Orthodox Christian calendar.
Corruption in Bulgaria has soared to its third highest peak in history, according to a recent report by the Center for the Study of Democracy. The findings indicate a significant failure in anti-corruption efforts by governmental institutions.
The report reveals alarming statistics, with over 30% of citizens and 25% of businesses admitting involvement in corrupt activities. Additionally, 35% of respondents reported facing pressure to engage in corruption. These figures closely mirror previous peaks in corruption levels observed in 2014 and as far back as 1999.
Of particular concern is the willingness of individuals to offer or accept bribes, with a notable increase observed in recent years. Despite widespread corruption, only 227 individuals were convicted and sanctioned by judicial authorities in 2022, highlighting a stark disparity between the prevalence of corruption and judicial action.
Yordanka Chobanova, head of the EC representation in Bulgaria, emphasized that corruption is not merely a perception but a tangible issue affecting Bulgarian society. Public expectations for effective anti-corruption measures are high, with 81% of citizens acknowledging the widespread nature of corruption in the country.
Dr. Todor Galev, Director of Scientific Activities at CSD, underscored the normalization of corruption within the business community, where preemptive compliance with corrupt demands has become commonplace.
Analysts stress the urgent need for genuine anti-corruption reforms, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing concrete actions over mere rhetoric. Despite discussions on judicial reform and the establishment of a new anti-corruption commission, the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts remains dismally low.
Atanas Slavov, former Minister of Justice, highlighted the detrimental impact of political instability on corruption levels, attributing the rise in corruption to unclear lines of accountability.
In light of the report's findings, there is a consensus among experts that strengthening law enforcement and regulatory authorities is essential for combating corruption effectively.
We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!
A significant blow has been dealt to the media landscape in Bulgaria as the National Assembly approved a ban on gambling advertisements across television, news websites, and print media
Bulgaria's Defense Minister, Atanas Zapryanov, affirmed that the reintroduction of mandatory conscription is not under consideration amidst the country's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance military personnel remuneration.
In response to ongoing staffing challenges within the Bulgarian army, the caretaker government is exploring alternative solutions, with military training for security personnel emerging as a potential strategy
Former Bulgarian Prime Minister and Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) leader Sergey Stanishev has announced his return to politics but clarified that he will not participate in the upcoming parliamentary or European elections
A recent survey conducted by Exacta Research Group sheds light on the electoral landscape in Bulgaria, indicating a clear lead for the GERB coalition as the country gears up for parliamentary elections on June 9
The political landscape in Bulgaria has been shaken by explosive allegations surrounding Kiril Petkov, who was Minister of Economy in the 2021 caretaker government
UN Happiness Report: Bulgaria's Astonishing Leap in Rankings
Bulgaria: 3 Regions With Lowest Life Expectancy - EU Report 2022