site.btaExecutive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad Launches National Survey "I Choose Bulgaria"

The Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad (EABA) has announced the launch of a national survey among Bulgarians living outside the country. The questionnaire is part of the "I Choose Bulgaria" initiative, which aims to gather opinions, attitudes and needs of the Bulgarian diaspora and to support the development of policies for successful return and sustainable settlement in Bulgaria, the Agency’s team told BTA.

The Agency noted that the survey is being conducted against the backdrop of positive demographic trends. According to data from the National Statistical Institute, more than 17,000 Bulgarians returned to the country in 2023, while data for 2024 show that the number of people returning exceeds the number of those leaving Bulgaria.

"Every opinion of Bulgarians abroad is important for the creation of policies and services that facilitate return and full participation in public life," EABA Director Rayna Mandzhukova said.

The survey seeks to identify the motivations, obstacles and expectations of both Bulgarians considering a return and those with temporary or long-term plans to live abroad.

The survey is anonymous and open to all Bulgarian citizens and people of Bulgarian origin living outside Bulgaria. The results will be used within the framework of the "I Choose Bulgaria" programme and future initiatives of the EABA.