site.btaDeputy PM Zafirov Reports on Bulgaria’s Roma Inclusion Strategy Progress in Brussels

Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov presented Bulgaria’s progress on implementing its Roma Inclusion Strategy during the 18th European Platform for Roma Inclusion meeting in Brussels on October 2–3, the government information service said Thursday.

This year’s meeting focused on “Insights and lessons after five years of implementing the EU Roma Strategic Framework – Progress made and remaining challenges.”

At the start of his address, Zafirov commented on the Council of Europe’s decision to close the post-monitoring dialogue with Bulgaria. He described this as a major recognition and noted that the official termination of the European Commission’s Cooperation and Verification Mechanism is a clear signal that Bulgaria is a reliable and full-fledged member of the European family.

Zafirov outlined the country’s progress under the national Roma inclusion strategy, stressing that over the past five years, despite political instability, institutions have worked to support the most vulnerable groups, with a strong focus on children and families at risk.

Among the key achievements he highlighted were improvements in education, including wider preschool and school enrolment. Measures for inclusive education have been introduced, and Roma mediators have been appointed in schools. According to the government, 9,912 children were enrolled in the first term of the current school year, while 6,256 children who had never previously attended school or preschool were admitted to the system. Preschool has become mandatory, free kindergartens have been introduced, and funding has been provided for pedagogical staff and Roma mediators, who receive a salary of BGN 1,600.

Progress was also noted in healthcare and employment. The number of check-ups for pregnant women has been increased from one to four, with access extended to uninsured women. There are currently 173 certified health mediators working in hospitals. In terms of employment, 83 Roma labour mediators are active, and 13,275 Roma started work in 2024, surpassing the target of 13,000.

Zafirov also announced that a national housing strategy is being developed. Positive legislative changes have introduced official addresses for people without registration, allowing them to obtain identity documents. He stressed that the rule of law must apply equally to all Bulgarian citizens, regardless of their social or ethnic background, while noting that improving living conditions remains a key challenge.

Zafirov chairs the National Council on Ethnic and Demographic Issues.