Social policy
News on social assistance, pensions, employment, income, welfare programs, and protection of vulnerable groups.
Easter 2026: The Table Will Cost 11% More - How War and Speculation Affect Prices?
The Easter table in Bulgaria in 2026 will be 11% more expensive compared to last year, according to data from the Institute for Social and Trade Union Research at KNSB. The main factor is the increase in the price of lamb meat, but the high prices of vegetables, eggs, and fuel also have an impact. Experts note the role of the conflict in the Middle East, speculation, and the lack of sufficient support for pensioners.
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.
April 2026 pensions to be paid starting today, April 7, with Easter supplements
April 2026 pensions will be paid from April 7th via post offices and bank transfer. Easter supplements will also be paid to pensioners in need, along with the pensions.
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.
Hasan Ademi: Over 60,000 applications for fuel compensation, March funds – in mid-April
Minister Ademi announced that around 50,900 applications have been submitted for the 20-euro fuel compensation. The total number is expected to exceed 60,000. The funds for March will be disbursed in mid-April. In April, the measure will be activated automatically at a certain fuel price.
Distribution of Food Products by the ASP: Aid for Over 530,000 Bulgarians
The distribution of food products under the program “Food and Basic Material Assistance” (FBMA) 2021-2027, co-financed by the EU, continues until May 15. The aid reaches over 530,000 vulnerable citizens, distributed by the Bulgarian Red Cross. Accompanying support is also provided to overcome social isolation.
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.
When and how will pensions and benefits be paid in April 2026?
The National Social Security Institute (NSSI) has announced the dates for the payment of pensions, supplements and benefits in April 2026. Pensions will be paid through post offices from April 7 to 20, and by bank transfer on April 7. Easter supplements will also be paid. Benefits will be paid on April 2 and 15.
Support measure for those in need comes into effect, fuel price stabilization
The support measure for those in need comes into effect. The caretaker Minister of Finance announces the stabilization of fuel prices and inspections by the NRA.
Fuel Compensation Program: How to Get 20 Euros Monthly from the State
The Social Assistance Agency has announced a program to compensate individuals for high fuel prices. A monthly allowance of 20 euros for low-income individuals who own vehicles. How to apply and what are the conditions?
ITN: Easter and Christmas Supplements for All Children
MPs from There Is Such a People (ITN) insist that Easter and Christmas supplements be granted to all children. They warn that they will insist on the fulfillment of the legislator's will and will support citizens in making claims if the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy (MLSP) interprets the law incorrectly.
Social Assistance Act: Christmas and Easter Supplements for Vulnerable Groups Become Mandatory
Parliamentarians adopted amendments to the Social Assistance Act, introducing mandatory Christmas and Easter supplements for those in need. The bill was supported by many parties and is expected to help over 500,000 people.
Caretaker Government Introduces Fuel Compensation for Households: Who Will Get Help and How?
The caretaker government has announced a new program of compensation for households due to the rising price of fuel. Low-income individuals owning vehicles will be supported, under certain conditions regarding fuel prices. The amount of assistance is 20 euros per month.
Seven Industry Organizations Support Changes to the Social Security Code for Pension Insurance
Seven industry organizations express their categorical support for the changes to the Social Security Code, introducing a multi-fund model in supplementary pension insurance. They reject the criticisms, emphasizing the benefits for insured persons and the development of the capital market.
NSI to pay out additional sums to pensions for April 2026 (information that every pensioner should know)
The National Social Security Institute (NSI) will pay out "Easter supplements" to the pensions of over 1.6 million pensioners in April 2026, based on a decision by the Council of Ministers. The supplements will be between 20 and 50 euros, depending on the size of the pension.