Bulgarian Government Resigns Amid Mass Protests Over Corruption and Economic Policies

Bulgaria’s political arena underwent a remarkable turn on December 11, 2025, with Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announcing that he would be resigning as a result of mass protests. The resignation took place just minutes before voting on a no-confidence motion in parliament.

The protests began spreading across Sofia and various Bulgarian cities because people were frustrated with corruption, increased taxes, and an increase in state social security contribution rates. The protesters were unhappy with the government’s economic policies because they seemed targeted at common Bulgarians and an ineffective response against corruption.

Although it pulled out its contentious budget for 2026, which marked Bulgaria’s first budget draft in euros, the government failed to appease protesters. The protests came against the backdrop of division within Bulgarian society, which has witnessed seven elections within the short span of four years. Young people were also part of these protests, expressing fear about their futures within Bulgarian society.

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, who previously called on the government to resign, will engage with political parties represented at parliament in a bid to form a new government. Alternatively, he will form a caretaker government in case no coalition government can be formed ahead of new elections.

It occurs at a very critical juncture as Bulgaria will join the euro zone on January 1, 2026. It would be very doubtful as to whether it will be capable of coping with an imminent transition due to political instability.

This case mirrors what is happening in Bulgaria at large. A delicate balancing act is taking place. Economies are being modernized. At the same time, efforts are being made to prosecute corruption and build democracy. The voice of the people, as manifested again through protests, continues to alter the political direction of Bulgaria.