Thousands of supporters of Bulgaria’s ultra-nationalist Revival party clashed with police in Sofia on Saturday, attempting to storm the European Union mission building during a protest against Bulgaria’s planned euro adoption in 2025.
Anti-government protesters, chanting “Resignation” and “No to the Euro,” engaged in violent acts, throwing red paint, firecrackers, and Molotov cocktails at the EU building in Sofia. The front door was set ablaze before police intervened, leading to scuffles and arrests during the Bulgaria euro protest.
As at the time of filing this report, at least 10 police officers were reported to have sustained minor injuries, and six individuals were detained following the violent confrontations at the EU building during the Bulgaria euro protest.
Bulgarian Government Condemns Attack on EU Mission
Soon after the attack, the Bulgarian government issued a statement condemning the attack on the EU buildings, emphasizing that such actions are “unacceptable and contradict the principles of the rule of law.” The government reiterated its commitment to euro adoption despite the Revival party’s opposition.
The protests initiated in front of the Bulgarian National Bank, where effigies of European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and other officials were set on fire, demonstrating strong anti-euro sentiment.
As it stands, Bulgarians are divided on the euro’s introduction, with many fearing it will lead to significant price increases, similar to the situation in Croatia. The Revival party has accused authorities of manipulating data to facilitate euro adoption.
Bulgaria’s Government Reaffirms Commitment to Euro Adoption
Despite the protests, Bulgaria’s new government, led by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, has reaffirmed its commitment to joining the eurozone in 2025. The government is working to meet the necessary economic criteria, including managing the state budget deficit and addressing inflation.
Meanwhile, economists are arguing that euro adoption would benefit Bulgaria, the EU’s poorest member state, by attracting foreign investment and securing credit rating upgrades, ultimately reducing debt financing costs.
