TEHRAN (Defapress) – In recent years, the “Gen Z” protests have emerged as a powerful wave in various countries around the world and are now challenging the first European government. In Bulgaria, Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov announced his resignation on December 11, joining a long list of leaders who have stepped down in recent years.
The event was the result of widespread protests, largely based on allegations of state corruption, and has now left politicians wondering how to form a new government. The protests not only reflect deep-seated dissatisfaction in society but are also part of a global movement of young people seeking fundamental change.
The protests in Bulgaria, described as “the largest demonstrations against state corruption in recent weeks,” began with public anger over a proposed tax hike for the private sector. Thousands of Bulgarians took to the streets, especially in the capital, Sofia, and across the country, in a rare show of national solidarity.
A significant portion of the protesters were young people and members of Gen Z, who are usually underrepresented in Bulgarian politics. The generation, which is facing economic and social challenges, has now added Bulgaria to the list of countries such as Madagascar, Morocco, and Nepal where Gen Z protests have reached their peak.
Although the protests began with a focus on corruption, their real driving force has been widespread dissatisfaction with the overall performance of the government. As a member of the European Union, Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro as its currency on January 1, but the decision has been compounded by fears of inflation.
Former Prime Minister Zhelyazkov stressed at a news conference that the government wants to live up to society’s expectations and has heard the protesters. “We must meet their demands, and what they are now demanding is the resignation of the government,” he added. The resignation came just before a vote of no confidence in the cabinet, reflecting mounting public pressure.
The prime minister’s resignation is bound to lead to an election, but Bulgaria’s political history is littered with electoral challenges. Seven elections have been held in the past four years, none of which have produced a stable majority. Now, all eyes are on Boyko Borisov, the former prime minister who has dominated Bulgarian politics for nearly two decades.
President Rumen Radev has said he will give Borisov, the leader of the largest party, GERB, the chance to propose a new government. However, Borisov may cede power to other parliamentary factions, which could open up an opportunity for Radev.
Radev, the country’s most popular politician, often takes positions close to Russia and has recently spoken of the possibility of forming his own political party and entering the election race, although he has not given further details. The presidency in Bulgaria is largely ceremonial, but Radev’s influence could change course.
Despite the potential changes, Bulgaria’s structural problems will remain. Corruption in the Balkan country of about 6.5 million people has been widespread even after joining the European Union, and Bulgaria has consistently been ranked as one of the most corrupt members of the bloc. This has not only eroded public trust but also hampered economic development. The Gen Z protests could be a turning point, but without deep reforms, the cycle of political instability will continue.