"Democratic Bulgaria" is proposing a large-scale legislative program consisting of 40 bills aimed at the modernization and digital transformation of the country. According to Bozhidar Bochanov, co-chairman of "Yes, Bulgaria" and one of the main authors of the proposals, the goal is to achieve optimal administrative efficiency, convenience for citizens, transparency, a competitive business environment, and a reduction in corruption risks.
The package of proposals, titled "Laws for a Digital Bulgaria," is structured into 8 groups and aims for a comprehensive digital transformation. The full content can be reviewed on the website digital.dabulgaria.bg, where every citizen can share their opinion through an AI-powered system. Some of the bills have already been submitted to Parliament, while others will be proposed following public discussion.
One of the program's main pillars is the achievement of "zero bureaucracy" through 9 bills. These are aimed at eliminating various paper-based and administrative burdens and include:
- the abolition of health insurance books and paper sick leaves;
- the removal of the requirement for stamps and the process of using them;
- the elimination of certificates for heirs and certificates of no outstanding obligations;
- the removal of vehicle stickers;
- the removal of EORI number applications and paper documents for taxi services;
- the digitalization of fishing and hunting licenses.
Another 10 bills focus on the transition from semi-electronic or paper-based processes to fully electronic ones. Proposals for full digitalization include electronic pre-trial proceedings, an electronic process for investment design and urban planning, as well as the possibility of electronic notary proceedings. Also proposed are the electronic registration of vehicles and companies, the processing of foreign worker permits, the introduction of electronic invoicing and the storage of electronic copies of paper documents, the full digitalization of the TELK (Territorial Expert Medical Commission) issuance processes, and centralized electronic tracking of deadline compliance for rulings across all administrations.
The program also envisions the creation of a comprehensive framework for the development and use of artificial intelligence, in accordance with the relevant European regulation. In the same direction is the introduction of a national digital wallet — a single application for accessing certificates, electronic services, and correspondence with state authorities, which will also include a European digital identity wallet, allowing personal documents to be presented via smartphone.
An important element is the new law on ICT management in the public sector, which will regulate how the state and municipalities manage information and communication technologies, as well as the role of the system integrator and transparency in procurement. For the sake of public accountability, the proposal includes publishing as much data as possible regarding state operations, especially concerning the expenditure of public funds. At the same time, specific digital measures against corruption and abuse in various sectors are provided, as digitalization itself serves as an anti-corruption measure.
The "Rights and Protection in the Digital World" group includes measures to guarantee fundamental rights and protect vulnerable groups during the digitalization process. These include:
- the protection of traffic data and driver data within the toll system;
- the criminalization of spyware;
- the option to refuse the storage of biometric data by the Ministry of Interior;
- the ability for persons with disabilities to use the 112 emergency number effectively;
- the limitation of addictive elements in social media and online gambling advertisements.
These changes will simplify administrative procedures and interaction with state institutions for all residents of Burgas and the region.
Democratic Bulgaria emphasizes that they will seek broad parliamentary support to implement these ideas.