Musician and producer Denis Rizov, a long-time figure in the band “Ahat,” reports that he perceives life in Bulgaria as calmer and more stable than in the United States. Following over three decades of moving between the two countries, Rizov states that while he once viewed the U.S. as a primary symbol of opportunity, he has become disillusioned with its current political and economic trajectory, specifically noting a shift in his perspective on the leadership of Donald Trump.
Shifting perspectives on American politics
Rizov, who first moved to America in 1993, maintains dual ties to both nations. He describes his lifestyle as one of constant movement, noting, “When I get tired of it here, I go there. When I get tired of it there, I come here.” Despite his history as a supporter of conservative politics and the first term of Donald Trump, Rizov now expresses significant frustration with the American political environment.
“The first Trump and the second Trump have nothing in common. At the moment, nothing works in my opinion,” Rizov said. He characterizes the United States as a large corporation burdened by massive debt, suggesting that the nation’s systemic problems are deeper and more difficult to address than the challenges currently facing Bulgaria.
Denis Rizov first began traveling to the United States in 1993 and has spent more than thirty years balancing his professional and personal life between Bulgaria and America.
Bulgaria’s path and the role of cultural centers
Despite acknowledging ongoing political instability and corruption, Rizov argues that Bulgaria is moving in the right direction. He suggests that Eastern European nations possess a unique advantage in navigating modern challenges because they have historical experience with the mechanisms of authoritarian regimes. “We have lived through this, and we know much better what it is about,” he stated.
Rizov is currently leveraging his American experience to support Bulgarian cultural infrastructure. He is developing a concept to revitalize local chitalishta—traditional community cultural and educational centers—by utilizing technology imported from the U.S. He emphasizes that this initiative is not a commercial venture, but rather an effort to preserve an important national asset for future generations.
Rizov’s perspective highlights a growing trend of “reverse migration” sentiment, where individuals with extensive Western experience find greater personal stability in the smaller, more manageable crises of their home countries. His focus on chitalishta suggests that he views local, grassroots cultural institutions as the most effective tools for long-term national development.
What may happen next
Rizov’s ongoing work on the development of Bulgarian community centers is expected to unfold over the coming decades. As he formalizes his concept for these institutions, it is likely that the integration of his imported technology could change how these centers function in rural and urban areas. Observers may watch to see if his non-commercial model successfully secures the legacy he intends for the youth of Bulgaria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Denis Rizov disappointed with the current state of the U.S.?
Rizov cites deep-seated economic issues, comparing the U.S. to a company with massive debt, and expresses that the political climate has shifted significantly since the first term of Donald Trump.
How does Rizov view the current situation in Bulgaria?
He believes the country is moving in the right direction despite corruption and political turmoil, noting that Eastern Europeans are better equipped to handle modern challenges due to their history with authoritarianism.
What is the goal of Rizov’s project regarding chitalishta?
His goal is to modernize these traditional centers with technology from the U.S. to ensure they remain relevant and beneficial for children and young people over the next several decades.
Do you believe that personal experience living abroad changes how one perceives the stability of their home country?
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