site.btaSurvey: National Identity Dominates Among Bulgarians

National identity dominates among Bulgarians, while traditions, history, and language remain the leading unifying factors. A sense of cultural vulnerability is also present, according to a Trend poll, commissioned by 24 Chasa, focused on national identity and culture on the eve of the country's national day, March 3.

The survey was conducted between January 12 and 18, 2026, through direct semi-standardized face-to-face interviews using tablets, among 1,001 people over the age of 18.

Some 83% of respondents identified themselves as "Bulgarian", while significantly fewer identified as "European" (9%), "Balkan" (4%), or "citizen of the world" (3%). The data clearly outline the dominance of national identity as the primary affiliation, according to the polling agency.

Some 47% said they feel most connected to Bulgaria, 30% to their town or village, 12% to their region, and 7% to Europe. Local identity is noticeably more pronounced among people living in smaller settlements, according to Trend.

The key unifying factors for Bulgarians are primarily traditions (71%), history (69%), and the Bulgarian language (57%).

When asked whether Bulgarian identity and culture are under threat, the majority of respondents perceive some degree of threat (60%), 42% say that Bulgarian culture is rather threatened, while 18% believe it is strongly threatened.

Two-thirds of respondents say they feel connected to Bulgarian culture during national holidays. A majority of respondents also say they feel closest to their culture within the family (54%), as well as through music, dance, and folklore (50%).

Most respondents predict that in 20 years Bulgarian culture will be preserved in some form: 15% believe it will be preserved and further developed, while 37% think it will adapt to new forms but remain recognizable. On the other hand, 19% predict that Bulgarian culture will be lost under the influence of globalization, and 15% believe it will survive only within small communities.