site.btaBulgarian MP Calls for Greater State Support for Bulgarians' Cultural Events Abroad

The Bulgarian state should do more to promote cultural events organized by Bulgarian communities abroad, said Stoyan Taslakov, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Policies for Bulgarians Abroad. He addressed participants at the inaugural Festival of Overseas Bulgarian Folklore Ensembles, which is taking place in Veliko Tarnovo from July 23 to 25.

Speaking to BTA, Taslakov praised the efforts of Bulgarians living outside the country in organizing festivals and maintaining cultural traditions, but noted that stronger support is needed. “This year, we managed to slightly increase the budget of the State Agency for Bulgarians Abroad, so it can better support cultural initiatives like this one,” he said, emphasizing the need for closer ties between Bulgarian institutions and diaspora communities.

Rayna Mandzhukova, Executive Director of the Agency, said the funding increase for 2025 amounts to about 30% of the Agency's upkeep budget. She noted that the Agency supports global initiatives through its own projects, joint activities with diaspora communities, and Bulgaria-based events focused on engagement with Bulgarians abroad.

Mandzhukova highlighted the growing consolidation among Bulgarians living overseas since the founding of the Association of Bulgarian Schools Abroad in 2005. At the time, there were just 36 schools in 18 countries; today, there are over 400 worldwide. She expects a similar path of development for the newly created Association of Bulgarian Folklore Ensembles Abroad, which may soon be eligible for state funding.

The folklore festival officially opened on July 23. On July 24, participants toured historical and cultural sites in Veliko Tarnovo. The final day of the festival will include a flash mob at the Asenevtsi Monument, traditional dances around the Mother Bulgaria monument, and a gala concert in the city's Summer Theater.