Title: Bulgarian Transwoman Petya lodge second lawsuit in Strasbourg, determined to change documents
Petya, originally registered as Petrov, has started the new year with a wish that transcends the normatives of documental formalities. She yearns to have her gender and name officially changed in her ID and passport, with the hope that 2024 will bring forth the necessary alterations.
Petya, a transgender Bulgarian woman, made headlines last year after successfully suing Bulgaria in the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) for refusal to amend her documents. The final verdict was passed on September 27, 2023, ordering Bulgaria to pay €7,500 in damages and altering Petya’s documents within three months. Despite the ruling, Petya’s official documents still reflect her birth name and male gender, leading to continuous difficulties in her daily life. Her struggle for recognition began in 2018, marked with rejections from Bulgarian courts and prolonged legal procedures. Unyielding, Petya, a graduate in English philology and applied linguistics, has once again filed a lawsuit, challenging the recent decision of the Supreme Court of Cassation to uphold the regional court’s refusal to change her gender and name.
In an interview with Bulgaria Dnes, Petya expressed her unwavering determination, "I won’t give up! I’m continuing the fight. I’ve filed another lawsuit against Bulgaria in Strasbourg. My application has been received and is under consideration. I’m confident it will proceed."
Petya’s journey includes a full gender reassignment surgery in Greece, a process she underwent to align her body with her gender identity. Her personal mission now extends beyond legal recognition; she aims to find steady employment and lead a normal life. "I have a mission, I’m pursuing it. I’ve accomplished so much – books, education, astrology, and now I’m taking acting classes. Work is gradually picking up," she shared.
Petya’s ambitions extend beyond Bulgaria. After completing her acting courses in the country, she traveled to Turkey, where she participated in several photoshoots with a renowned local photographer. She also made appearances on Turkish television, establishing herself as a recognizable figure in the neighboring country. By 2025, Petya plans to realize her dream of changing her documents and forging a career in the film industry.
Petya’s Heart Yearns for Love
Petya’s pursuit of acting skills is heavily influenced by her admiration for Turkish actor Ali Duran. "I feel an inexplicable attraction towards him. I know it’s not a coincidence. For the new year, I wish for health and love. My biggest dream is to star in a movie alongside Ali," Petya confessed.
Although they have not communicated directly, Petya and Ali follow each other on social media. Petya hopes that one day their paths will cross, allowing their connection to blossom into something more.
