Sofia, Bulgaria — Government Resigns as Protests Sweep Nation
Bulgaria’s government officially resigned on Thursday, December 11, 2025, after weeks of large-scale demonstrations demanding action against entrenched corruption and unpopular economic policies. The move comes just weeks before the country is scheduled to adopt the euro as its official currency, marking a critical moment in the nation’s political and economic trajectory.
Mass Demonstrations and Public Outcry
Across Sofia and other Bulgarian cities, tens of thousands of citizens took to the streets, chanting slogans calling for government resignation and demanding transparency and accountability in both politics and governance. Protesters — including large numbers of students and young people — expressed deep frustration with perceived corruption and stalled reforms, particularly after controversial budget proposals that included tax increases and social-security hikes.
Authorities ultimately withdrew the contentious 2026 budget plan amid the backlash, but the demonstrations continued to grow, with many activists insisting that systemic changes were essential.
Resignation Before Parliamentary Vote
Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced the government’s resignation in a televised address shortly before a scheduled no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. Facing mounting pressure from both opposition parties and the public, Zhelyazkov stated that stepping down was necessary to respect the will of the people and to help restore trust in national institutions.
Political leaders are now focused on forming a transitional administration and preparing the country for potential early elections as Bulgaria navigates a period of political uncertainty. Despite the upheaval, plans to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026 are expected to move forward.
