New measures against juvenile delinquency

Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev discussed a series of initiatives to tackle antisocial behavior among minors. The main focus is on limiting access to social media and serious legal reforms.

"Research shows that the harm from social media for children far outweighs the benefits up to a certain age," stated Demerdzhiev.

What the changes provide for:

  • Legal changes: A new law on antisocial behavior of minors is being prepared.
  • Penal Code: Stricter penalties are being introduced for crimes committed by minors due to the high level of public danger.
  • Parental responsibility: The state is calling for a unification of efforts between institutions and parents.

According to the minister, children need time for development and upbringing before being exposed to the "extremely dangerous space" of social media. In parallel with these measures, the state is also strengthening control over drug distribution.

In addition, Demerdzhiev commented that the government is fully prepared for the upcoming elections and emphasized the importance of ethnic tolerance in Bulgarian society.