Bulgaria is one of the most recent members of the European Union, and also the poorest. EU funds contribute a vital role to the economy: €12 billion for the period of 2021-2027, and €6.6 billion already thanks to the post-Covid recovery fund.

But Bulgaria faces multiple obstacles in its attempts to reduce poverty. Political instability has resulted in five elections in the past two years, and that instability has undermined long-term financial planning. Meanwhile, reforms to reduce corruption and strengthen the independence of the judiciary are still incomplete.

Our guests in part one of the show explain Bulgaria’s current political deadlock, as well as how the EU aid is helping the country.

Bulgarian Vice-President (close to the Socialist Party), Iliana Iotova is interviewed in the Bulgarian archeology museum in Sofia.

Mayor of Gabrovo, Tanya Hristova (GERB - centre-right party which got the most seats in the recent elections) - interview in the city of Gabrovo, which is still dealing with the legacy of its industrial past. 

Our reports also cast light on how the EU functions in Bulgaria:

The EU helping young Bulgarians to help their country, by David Gilberg. How EU funds help improve education opportunities for young people in Bulgaria and aim to reverse the brain drain - Bulgaria’s population has fallen 10 percent in the past decade.

Fact or Fake by Sophie Samaille: Does the EU really help young people?

>>Watch part two of the show

Show presented by Armen Georgian, produced by Johan Bodin, filmed on location by Johan Bodin and Stéphane Bodenne, with Luke Brown. Editor in chief, Caroline de Camaret.

_{Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the DG Regional and Urban Policy. Neither the European Union nor the DG Regional and Urban Policy can be held responsible for them.}