A clash broke out in the Bulgarian parliament over the country’s prospective adoption of the euro and entry into the eurozone.
During a recent parliamentary session, members of the “Revival” party blocked the speaker’s podium and declared the session over.
“We must make it clear that we will not tolerate humiliation and will not allow anyone else to tell us, Bulgarians, what to do. People are outside waiting for an answer from the traitors to the nation—whether they sold out and destroyed the Bulgarian state and financial system out of conviction or because of their morals,” said “Revival” party leader Kostadin Kostadinov from the podium. Following his speech, the blockade of the rostrum began.
“Revival” members declared they would not allow any other MPs to speak.
A physical altercation ensued between Tsoncho Ganev from “Revival” and Yavor Bozhankov from “We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria.” Despite the blocked podium, lawmakers managed to vote on several proposals before the session was adjourned.
Parliament Speaker Natalia Kiselova issued a formal reprimand to Kostadinov for causing disorder in the chamber, as well as to the deputies involved in the scuffle.
The European Commission and the European Central Bank (ECB) have officially confirmed Bulgaria’s readiness to join the eurozone on January 1, 2026, which would make it the 21st member of the currency union.
However, critics warn that joining the eurozone could lead to at least a one-time price increase, which would particularly affect the rural population.
Against this backdrop, protests against the euro transition were held in Bulgaria the previous day.
