site.btaBulgaria’s Social Policy Minister Calls 2026 Budget Balanced and Socially Focused

Bulgaria’s Minister of Labour and Social Policy Borislav Gutsanov described the 2026 budget as balanced and more socially oriented in a Sunday interview on bTV. He emphasized that there is no indiscriminate distribution of funds and that citizens should feel secure knowing a social state supports them.

Gutsanov noted that while populism was avoided, some necessary reforms remain unimplemented. He highlighted that pension spending follows a model established nearly 20 years ago and confirmed that pensions will see an 8% adjustment under the budget, with the Swiss rule remaining in place.

The Minister also defended salaries for ministry employees, which range from BGN 1,600 to 2,300 gross, noting that the planned 5% increase is reasonable. Regarding staff at the National Statistical Institute and National Social Security Institute who have protested for higher pay, Gutsanov said raises would be desirable but must fit within the available budget.

Finally, the Ministry is working on legislation to clarify how Christmas and Easter pension bonuses are determined, Gutsanov added.