The political party “Progressive Bulgaria,” led by Rumen Radev, has officially released its comprehensive 150-page political program. While the program had been presented prior to the election, the full text was only made available on the party’s website recently, providing a detailed glance at the organization’s strategic priorities.
Fiscal Policy and European Integration
A central pillar of the program is the commitment to maintain the current flat tax system, with the party stating it will not increase the tax. The party has explicitly ruled out leaving the European Union, pledging instead that Bulgaria will remain an active and influential member within the bloc.
To bolster the economy, the party proposes the creation of a vice-premier specifically for investments and the establishment of an independent investment ombudsman. These moves are part of a broader strategy to foster a high value-added economy through stable fiscal policy and reduced business regulations.
Governance and the “Oligarchic Model”
The program outlines a priority termed the “Dismantling of the oligarchic model and strengthening of statehood.” The party aims to achieve this by removing oligarchs from access to both political power and public resources.
To ensure transparency and the rule of law, “Progressive Bulgaria” proposes the implementation of AI-driven control over public procurement. AI is also envisioned as a tool for modernization across administration, education and the general economy.
Constitutional Reform and Judicial Independence
The party is calling for significant constitutional changes, most notably returning the president’s right to freely appoint a caretaker prime minister, a move described as the removal of the “domovata kniga” (household book).
A primary objective is the formation of a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. This majority would be used to elect a modern Supreme Judicial Council, which would then allow for the appointment of a legitimate Prosecutor General. However, the party notes that the timeframe for this process could be extended indefinitely depending on the political configuration within parliament.
Social, Infrastructure, and Sectoral Goals
The party’s social agenda includes strengthening social protection, reducing poverty and inequality, and ensuring quality education for every child. In healthcare, the program focuses on reducing patient co-payments and expanding accessible healthcare across all regions.
Infrastructure plans include digital transformation for economic growth and the provision of quality water and sewage services at fair prices. In the energy sector, the goal is to make Bulgaria a regional leader with maximum energy autonomy and secure, affordable energy for households and businesses.
Other sectoral priorities include:
- Defense: Accelerated modernization of defense capabilities.
- Agriculture: Prioritizing food security and strategic investments in irrigation for rural regions.
- Tourism: Implementing aggressive marketing to establish high-quality, four-season tourism.
- Environment: Protecting Bulgarian nature and maintaining a clean environment.
- Security: Intensifying the fight against crime, drug trafficking, and illegal migration.
the party plans to support youth entrepreneurship to encourage young people to remain in Bulgaria and proposes a transparent mechanism to increase the minimum wage. Stricter measures for the collection of debts owed to the state are also planned.
The complete political program can be viewed here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will “Progressive Bulgaria” change the flat tax?
No, the party’s program states that it will leave the flat tax as It’s and will not increase it.
Does the party intend for Bulgaria to leave the European Union?
No, the program explicitly states that Bulgaria will not leave the EU and intends to be active within the organization.
What is the party’s plan for judicial reform?
The party aims to form a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly to elect a new Supreme Judicial Council, which would then lead to the election of a legitimate Prosecutor General.
Which of these proposed reforms do you believe would have the most immediate impact on Bulgaria’s governance?
