The protest, which took place in Sofia on November 26, was also covered in the Western media, with The Associated Press, Independent, EuroNews covering the event with the headlines "Thousands take to the streets of the Bulgarian capital", "Thousands gather to protest against the Bulgarian budget for 2026" In the publications they state:
Thousands of protesters organized a large-scale demonstration in front of the parliament building in the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia, to condemn the high taxes announced in the draft budget for next year. Protesters formed a human chain around the building to prevent the deputies from leaving.
The opposition coalition between the "Continue Change" and "Democratic Bulgaria" parties organized the rally, which was attended by about 20,000 protesters. The demonstration comes as the Balkan country prepares to enter the eurozone early next year.
Authorities say three police officers were injured while carrying out their duties to maintain public order as the protests escalated. Clashes and gunfire were also reported between riot control forces and protesters.
Some protesters attempted to break through the police cordon and threw fireworks and glass bottles at police forces during what was declared a peaceful protest in front of the National Assembly building, according to the Sofia Directorate of Internal Affairs (SDVR).
The protesters attempted to overturn a police van but were repelled by the gendarmerie. Authorities reported that official cars of members of parliament were also pelted with objects and attacked by some protesters.
The protests began at 6:00 p.m. local time, when people initially gathered in front of the National Assembly, and shortly afterwards surrounded it and blocked all exits to prevent lawmakers who were considering the 2026 budget from leaving the building.
Some demonstrators claimed that police fired tear gas into the crowd of protesters to disperse them.
The protest reflects widespread concerns about the economic impact of the budget on individuals and businesses, including an increase in social security contributions and a doubling of the tax on dividends.
Despite opposition from various social groups and warnings from economists that the project carries significant risks, the budget is likely to be approved as the ruling coalition has a comfortable majority in parliament.
The budget sets a record for government spending, reaching almost 46% of gross domestic product (GDP). This increase will be financed mainly through higher taxes on businesses and workers, as well as a sharp increase in public debt.