Humanitarian Focus
Up-to-date news for refugees, displaced persons, and migrants — legislative changes, institutional decisions, support programs, and new initiatives affecting their status and rights.
Humanitarian organizations: the war in Iran disrupts access to food and medicine for millions of people
The conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has led to the most serious disruption of global supply chains since COVID‑19, blocking the Strait of Hormuz and increasing transport costs. WHO and humanitarian organizations warn of a sharp rise in hunger and shortages of medicines.
Iranian refugees and Bulgaria: a real destination or a peripheral route?
The main destinations for Iranian refugees remain Germany, the UK, Canada and other high-income countries, while Bulgaria is more of a transit country with a small number of asylum applications. Despite the improved asylum system, the country has limited capacity and problems with access to the procedure, which raises questions about its readiness for a mass influx.
The Council of Ministers allocated funds for humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees
The government approved funding for the Bulgarian Red Cross to support Ukrainian refugees. A security agreement with Ukraine has also been signed.
UNHCR: Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine Continues – Millions Need Assistance
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports a deepening humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, affecting millions of people. Following a harsh winter, Ukrainians are struggling with hardships and attacks, while hopes for peace remain distant. UNHCR is providing humanitarian aid and recovery support, both within Ukraine and for refugees abroad, with a focus on inclusion and self-reliance.
Over 220,000 Ukrainians have received temporary protection in Bulgaria since the start of the war
UNICEF Bulgaria reports that nearly 80,000 Ukrainian citizens continue to live in Bulgaria, of whom about 24,000 are children. The organization provides support for Ukrainian children and families, including educational assistance and psychological support.
Government Provides Properties for Refugee Centers: What Does It Mean?
The outgoing Council of Ministers has decided to provide properties to the State Agency for Refugees. The aim is to build centers for accommodating people seeking international protection, despite the low occupancy of existing centers.
Will the temporary protection for Ukrainians in Bulgaria be extended until 2027 and what does this mean in practice
The EU has already decided to extend the temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine until March 2027. How does this affect people in Bulgaria, what rights do they retain and what steps should they take from now on?
Caretaker Council of Ministers Allocates Additional Funding for Ukrainian Refugees
The caretaker Council of Ministers approved additional funding for humanitarian aid to displaced persons from Ukraine residing in Bulgaria. The total sum amounts to over 2 million euros.
Bulgaria and UNICEF: A Two-Year Plan to Support Children (2025-2027)
A two-year cooperation plan between Bulgaria and UNICEF (01.07.2025 - 31.12.2027) has been approved, focusing on child development, poverty reduction, social inclusion, and monitoring of children's rights. Bulgaria is among the leaders in reducing the number of children in severe material deprivation.
35 Years of Humanitarianism: Doctors of the World Convene Congress in Greece
A conference by Doctors of the World in Greece marked 35 years of humanitarian work. Contemporary challenges, humanitarian funding, volunteerism, and other topics were discussed. Focus on vulnerable groups.
Humanitarian Aid: Bulgaria Provides Over 2 Million BGN to Those in Need
Bulgaria has approved humanitarian aid and development assistance worth over 2.3 million BGN. The funds are designated for Ukraine, Gaza, Syria, and other countries, supporting international organizations. Bulgaria reaffirms its status as a reliable donor.
Experience Exchange Between Social Services from Burgas, Ruse and Razgrad
Social services from Burgas, Ruse, and Razgrad exchanged experiences. Specialists discussed best practices and challenges in their work with people with mental disorders to improve social care.
BFW Launches "Care at Any Cost" Campaign Against Domestic Violence
The Bulgarian Fund for Women (BFW) has announced the "Care at Any Cost" campaign to combat domestic violence. The campaign includes a fundraising initiative and events until March 8, 2026, aimed at supporting victims.
116 111: Thousands of Calls and Discussions on Child Safety
The national hotline 116 111 for children recorded over 21,000 calls by November 2025. The Minister of Social Affairs discussed online safety and age restrictions for social networks. Risky situations were also addressed.
Alternatives to Temporary Protection: Types of Legal Residence for Foreigners and Refugees in Bulgaria in 2025–2026
We explain the main forms of long-term legal residence in Bulgaria – refugee protection, humanitarian status, long-term and permanent residence, as well as specific regimes for the treatment of foreigners.