In Bulgaria, the rule of law remains a central concern that affects not only the judiciary but also public trust in institutions. Judicial independence and the insulation of courts from political and business interests continue to appear elusive. The European Commission’s 2024 Rule of Law Report highlights persistent political control over the Supreme Judicial Council and limited progress in reforming its inspectorate. Moreover, prosecutorial power remains highly centralised under the Prosecutor General, despite recommendations to broaden participation in oversight bodies. These recommendations remain unimplemented.
Corruption in the judiciary continues to erode public confidence and financial integrity. International organisations such as GRECO and the OECD note that criminal justice fails to produce outcomes in cases involving high-ranking officials. In 2023, administrative corruption reached a third historic peak, with around 30 percent of citizens and a quarter of businesses reporting direct pressure or involvement in corrupt practices.
Allegations of close ties between political figures, members of the prosecution service and business interests have raised concerns about the impartiality and transparency of Bulgaria’s justice system. These concerns are often linked to the perception that legal proceedings involving influential individuals are not conducted with the same rigour as those involving ordinary citizens. Observers have noted that high-profile cases are sometimes discontinued or delayed without sufficient public explanation, contributing to a sense of selective justice. Investigative journalists and civil society organisations have drawn attention to the potential existence of informal networks or influences within the prosecutorial system, which may affect decision-making processes. Such dynamics, even if unproven, can undermine public confidence in the rule of law and foster a belief that accountability is unevenly applied. The perceived lack of clarity and consistency in prosecutorial actions continues to be a significant factor in the broader discourse on judicial reform and institutional trust in Bulgaria.
The judiciary is significantly overburdened, with prolonged case delays and excessive administrative strain discouraging both citizens and businesses. Despite relatively high public spending on the justice system as a share of GDP per capita, measures to improve transparency, independence and efficiency remain insufficient.
Media freedom is also compromised by political pressure and corporate dependencies. There is increasing concentration of media ownership tied to political interests, and journalists often face threats, pressure or financial repercussions. These constraints on independent journalism undermine democratic oversight and civic dialogue.
International institutions consistently raise alarm over the state of the rule of law in Bulgaria. The European Parliament has repeatedly criticised the country’s institutions for weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and political influence over the judiciary. According to the 2024 Liberties Rule of Law Report, Bulgaria ranks among the five EU member states with the most severely eroded legal frameworks.
In conclusion, despite numerous reports and recommendations, the problems in Bulgaria’s judiciary and the widespread corruption remain structural and persistent. Ensuring judicial independence, effective prosecution of high-level cases, transparency in judicial proceedings, protection of investigative journalists and media pluralism are essential. Sustainable political will and the consistent application of European standards are critical to restoring the rule of law.
References:
- European Commission Rule of Law Report, 2024
- GRECO and OECD assessments on judicial and anti-corruption frameworks
- Administrative Corruption Index, Center for the Study of Democracy, 2023
- Investigative reports on ‘Barcelonagate’ and ‘The Eight Dwarfs’ by Mediapool and Bivol.bg
- Reports on judicial workload and funding by the Center for the Study of Democracy
- Reports on media freedom by Reporters Without Borders and Radio Free Europe
- European Parliament resolutions on Bulgaria’s rule of law
Liberties.eu Rule of Law Report, 2024