Social policy
News on social assistance, pensions, employment, income, welfare programs, and protection of vulnerable groups.
Modern kitchen for the Home Social Patronage in Nessebar: 7 new professional appliances
The Municipality of Nessebar has invested nearly 23,000 euros in new equipment for social patronage, improving the quality of food for the elderly and people with disabilities.
Pension reform in Bulgaria: How can the European experience save the system?
Prof. Dr. Bogomil Manov proposes a reform of the pension system in Bulgaria by introducing Swedish, German, and Danish models for greater financial sustainability and fairness.
Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva: Budget 2026 poses risks to the most vulnerable
Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva warns that the 2026 budget may restrict access to social rights. Key points include concerns regarding pensions, child benefits, and the lack of funding for a children's hospital.
Updated pensions for July start from July 7, the social old-age pension is also increased
Labor pensions granted by the end of 2025 are increased by 7.8% according to the Swiss rule, and the payment of the increased amounts for July begins on July 7. The social old-age pension is also rising, as are a number of other related payments.
The "Hot Lunch" program is guaranteed until 2027: Here is the new aid provided
Minister Natalia Efremova announced that funding for the "Hot Lunch" program will continue until 2027. The rate per meal is being increased, and support for the most vulnerable is being expanded.
From July 1, pensions increase according to the "Swiss rule", but without the COVID supplement
From July 1, 2026, the 30.68 EUR "COVID supplement" is removed from all labor pensions, but they are updated by 7.8%. The increase also covers minimum and social pensions, as well as "widow supplements", and the NSSI announced the dates for the payment of pensions and benefits in July.
"Progressive Bulgaria" insists on an audit of the growth of pensions and social benefits
MPs from "Progressive Bulgaria" want the National Audit Office to check whether the increase in pensions and benefits from 2020 to 2026 corresponds to social security revenues and to analyze the effectiveness of these decisions.
50-euro Christmas bonus becomes law, covering over 500,000 people
For the first time, the Christmas bonus will be granted by law rather than by government decision, and it will cover not only pensioners but also social assistance recipients.
Natalia Efremova: The mission is fewer children at risk of poverty in Bulgaria
The Minister of Labor and Social Policy announced new measures for early childhood development and poverty reduction. See what initiatives will support families in need.
Minister Efremova: 163,000 pensioners with higher incomes after July 1
From July 1, the social old-age pension becomes 183.81 euros, and all other pensions will also increase by 7.8%, which will improve the incomes of 163,000 of the most vulnerable elderly people.
Social old-age pension increases to 183.81 euros from July 1
From July 1, the social old-age pension increases from 170.51 to 183.81 euros according to the Swiss rule, which automatically raises all non-employment-related pensions and supplements.
New mechanism for the minimum wage from 2027: Key decisions from the Tripartite Council
Caretaker Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev announced a discussion on a new minimum wage mechanism in August. Controversies remain regarding social security contributions and paternity leave.
Prof. Durankev: Freezing the minimum wage is a recipe for social explosion
Economist Prof. Boyan Durankev criticizes the idea of freezing the minimum wage amidst 6.9% inflation and warns of severe social consequences.
Ombudsman against the staggering of heating allowances: A social risk for the vulnerable
Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva has spoken out against the staggering of heating allowances into two installments. She warned that this threatens families' access to fuel and places a burden on the budgets of the poorest.
Basket of Care: 5 more chains lower prices on essential goods
The national "Basket of Care" initiative is expanding with 5 new retail chains. See which stores are offering up to 15% discounts for Bulgarian consumers.