site.btaDeputy PM: Institutional Distrust Among Domestic Violence Victims Raises Questions About System’s Effectiveness

Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov said the distrust domestic violence victims feel toward institutions raises serious questions about how well those institutions are doing their job. He addressed a conference organized by The WakeUp Foundation, where the results of a sociological survey among victims of domestic violence were presented. According to the survey, 53% of victims believe that the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act is not working effectively.

Zafirov said that while the ongoing political crisis plays a role in the system's current state, it cannot serve as a permanent excuse. “To restore greater trust in institutions, it is crucial to have clear mechanisms for protection not just on paper,” Zafirov said. He stressed the need for firm and unequivocal consequences for abusers, faster responses from the judiciary, and accessible, free legal, psychological and social support.

The Deputy PM underlined the importance of investing in the training of police officers, judges and social workers to eliminate the trivialization of cases, formalistic approaches, and double standards.

“The fact that 74% of victims believe institutions turn a blind eye to domestic violence cases, and 70% do not feel protected, is a harsh verdict. It must be heard by the very institutions responsible for action,” Zafirov stated.

The survey data are a wake-up call, he added, as they show that violence does not end when the perpetrator leaves. In many cases, it continues in the form of harassment and institutional obstacles.