A recent incident of vandalism at a memorial in the center of Burgas sparked reactions, but it is important to emphasize: this is not an expression of systemic anti-Semitism in Bulgaria, but an act of vandalism by individual, short-sighted people. Such actions are unacceptable and must be strictly punished, but they do not reflect the attitude of Bulgarian society towards the Jewish community.
Historical Friendship and Solidarity
During World War II, despite its alliance with Nazi Germany, Bulgaria saved around 50,000 of its Jewish citizens from deportation to death camps. This was made possible through the joint efforts of deputies, clergy, public leaders, and ordinary citizens who opposed pressure from Berlin. The story of the "Salvation of Bulgarian Jews" is a unique example of civic courage and moral stance.
Today, every year on March 9, a "March of Tolerance" is held in Sofia and other cities in memory of these events. This is living proof that Bulgaria preserves and respects its history of solidarity.
Security and Respect Today
The Jewish community in Bulgaria lives in an environment of freedom, security, and mutual respect. Synagogues, cultural centers, and schools operate, and Bulgaria and Israel maintain active diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. The Sofia Synagogue, one of the largest in Europe, is a symbol of peaceful coexistence and cultural diversity.
Miro's Concert – A Musical Gesture of Friendship
On August 10, 2025, at the Summer Theater in Burgas, the popular singer Miro performed the traditional song "שָׁלוֹם עֲלֵיכֶם מַלְאֲכֵי הַשָּׁלוֹם מַלְאֲכֵי עֶלְיוֹן" ("Peace be upon you, angels of peace, angels of the Most High") in Hebrew. This spiritual greeting, which in Jewish tradition is heard on Friday evening, was met with thunderous applause and became a powerful symbol of friendship between the two peoples. A video of the performance will be attached to the article.
Conclusion
History and the present clearly show: Bulgaria is a country where the Jewish community is respected and protected. Isolated acts of vandalism cannot overshadow the centuries-old tradition of mutual assistance and tolerance. And cultural gestures, like Miro's performance, remind us that bridges between peoples are built with respect, culture, and human warmth.