It is a huge responsibility for me to chair the National Council for Prevention and Protection from Domestic Violence under the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria. A body that has the difficult task of leading state policy in the field of prevention and protection from domestic violence. This is an extremely difficult problem for our society and all competent bodies, institutions and organizations will make every effort to create the conditions for its control. Combating violence is a top priority for the Bulgarian government. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov during a meeting of the National Council for Prevention and Protection from Domestic Violence.
Minister of Justice Georgi Georgiev emphasized the need for better planning, a more detailed analysis of the policies set and what has been done on them, more optimal planning and effective control over the funds spent and implemented initiatives and measures in the fight against violence.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that the draft for the long-awaited Coordination Mechanism for Assistance and Support to Victims of Domestic Violence has been published for public discussion until 26.06.2025 and will subsequently be submitted by the Deputy Prime Minister for adoption by the Council of Ministers. Its purpose is to regulate the basic procedures for interaction between the executive authorities, local government, legal entities providing specialized services for protection, assistance and support or recovery programs and providers of social services for persons affected by domestic violence.
Information was also provided on the progress achieved in building a National Information System for Prevention and Protection. It includes information on cases of domestic violence committed on the territory of the country or against Bulgarian citizens abroad who have sought help and support, and a list of legal entities that carry out activities for the prevention and protection of domestic violence.
With regard to the National Helpline for Persons Affected by Domestic Violence and at Risk, with a single harmonized number 116 016, it was reported that a request was made to the system integrator “Information Services“ AD, according to the signed framework agreement.
A Report on the Activities of the National Council was also adopted, outlining the achievements of all involved institutions, bodies and organizations in implementing the activities under the National Program for 2024 - 2026 for improving the legal, social and practical situation of victims of domestic violence.