Maria Simeonova

Vessela Tcherneva, deputy director of ECFR, and Maria Simeonova, head of ECFR’s Sofia office, delve into Bulgaria's political turmoil. They discuss the impact of powerful oligarchs on democracy and state institutions, noting the alarming frequency of elections and public protests. The conversation highlights the country's aspirations for Eurozone membership amidst judicial challenges and corruption concerns. They also tackle the EU's responsibility in combating democratic backsliding, emphasizing the broader implications for European stability and credibility.