The government is taking decisive steps to overcome the demographic crisis and shortage of qualified personnel through a large-scale national initiative "I Choose Bulgaria". The program aims to stimulate the return of Bulgarian citizens working outside the country's borders by offering financial support and opportunities for professional realization.
A key element of the state strategy is the allocation of 50 million leva to support the repatriation process. The main goal is to attract highly qualified specialists who could contribute to the development of the Bulgarian economy and labor market.
Experts from the social ministry have developed a detailed mechanism to support returning Bulgarian citizens. Among the main conditions is the obligation for participants to maintain their employment in Bulgaria for at least a six-month period after joining the program.
Zornitsa Rusinova, former social minister and chair of the Economic and Social Council, commented positively on the initiative. According to her, the proposed measures represent a long-awaited opportunity for people who wish to return and develop professionally in their homeland.
The financial incentive of up to 10,000 leva is intended to cover household relocation expenses. This approach aims to eliminate the main logistical and financial barriers for potential repatriates.
Rusinova emphasized that the current program is only a first step and additional targeted measures are needed to overcome the personnel shortage in various professional sectors. The expert highlighted the importance of creating a sustainable ecosystem for retaining young and qualified Bulgarian specialists.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy expects the initiative to generate serious interest among Bulgarian workers and specialists currently employed abroad. The goal is not only financial stimulation but also creating a sense of perspective and opportunities in the home country.
The "I Choose Bulgaria" program is a comprehensive response to challenges related to emigration and the demographic crisis. Through targeted investments and support, the state seeks to bring back part of the intellectual and labor potential that has left the country in recent years.
The success of the initiative will be measured not only by the number of returning Bulgarian citizens but also by their professional integration and contribution to the national economy. The ministry will conduct periodic monitoring and analysis of the program's results.