Young Families and Demographics: How to Bring Back Nine Million to Bulgaria?

How to once again become nine million in Bulgaria and the problems of motherhood were discussed by experts at a discussion organized by "We Continue the Change" (PP). The topic of the discussion was "Young Families and Incomes."

Assoc. Prof. Kaloyan Tsvetkov from Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" presented the demographic dynamics in the country for the last 25 years, which shows a steady decline in the population by about 1.5 million people. Despite this, he pointed out that in certain municipalities there is a concentrated young population and a high natural increase. According to Assoc. Prof. Tsvetkov, since 2010 we have had a sustainable process of increasing mortality, which is one of the big problems. The birth rate in Bulgaria is above the EU average, but the mother's age at the birth of the first child is important. The problem with reproductive capabilities (about 150 thousand couples) is worrying.

Assoc. Prof. Tsvetkov emphasized that the difference between the average mortality rate in the EU and Bulgaria is over 5 per mille, which is a serious problem related to the health system and social living conditions. Northwest Bulgaria, North Central Bulgaria, Sakar and Strandzha have the highest negative mortality values.

Assoc. Prof. Boris Kazakov from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences reminded that lately more people are coming to Bulgaria than leaving it. He warned that the population is aging (about a quarter over 60 years old) and predicted that by 2040 the population here will be 5-6 million.

Venko Sabrutev from PP summarized that 70% of the territory of Bulgaria in 2040 will be a "demographic desert".

Veselina Panayotova from the "Mama ima rabota" foundation addressed the problems of working mothers, as according to a study, they most often have one child and work. The need is for flexible working hours and qualification courses.

Ivanka Shalapatova, Minister of Social Affairs in the "Denkov" cabinet, emphasized the importance of a policy focused on the well-being of the person. She noted the lack of family policy and a strategy for the child for seven years. According to her, demographic development requires the empowerment of young people, an active life for pensioners, and a coordinated social, health, and educational policy.

Iliana Balabanova, a representative of the civil sector, pointed out the lack of a policy against domestic violence.