site.btaLegislators Approve Ratification of International Health Regulations (2005)

The Bulgarian National Assembly Friday approved, in both readings during a single session, the ratification of the International Health Regulations (2005). The vote was 102 MPs in favor, 30 against, and six abstentions.

The regulations, adopted under Article 21 of the Constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2005, replace the earlier version from 1969. They are legally binding for 196 countries—all 194 WHO member states, along with the Vatican and Liechtenstein.

The rules establish a comprehensive legal framework for global health security, defining the rights and obligations of countries in responding to public health events and emergencies with potential cross-border implications.

Health Minister Silvi Kirilov explained that the revised Regulations aim to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response measures to disease outbreaks with international spread. The goal is to address public health risks in a proportionate and limited manner, while minimizing unnecessary disruption to international traffic and trade.

Unless a WHO member state formally rejects or raises reservations by July 19, 2025, the revised regulations will automatically come into force without the need for an additional act, Kirilov noted.