The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITUB) stated that the 2026 state budget should be formally adopted within two months. Speaking at a press conference, CITUB President Plamen Dimitrov presented data concerning the cost-of-living wage for the first quarter of 2026 and noted that preparations for the regular budget are underway. Dimitrov mentioned the existence of an unofficial draft from the caretaker Cabinet, which would ultimately be handled by the regular government.
He added that if a clear parliamentary majority is established, the budget could potentially be adopted in no more than six weeks. CITUB specifically advocates for the adoption of the second version of the budget presented at the end of 2025, which they claim has not yet been implemented. According to the union, the desired draft should incorporate a projected 3% deficit, a 10% increase in personnel spending, and an 8.6% rise in pensions starting July 1, alongside a significant capital program.
Beyond these financial metrics, CITUB expects the new budget to include robust support for public transport and targeted measures for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the union proposed maintaining current public transport fares while introducing free travel for pensioners, the socially vulnerable, and persons with disabilities for specific months until price stabilization is achieved. In related legislative updates, the National Assembly passed amendments to the 2025 Budget Extension Act on second reading, keeping it in effect until the 2026 State Budget Act is adopted.
Meanwhile, caretaker Finance Minister Georgi Klisurski confirmed that the caretaker Cabinet is prepared to submit a regular budget should a governing majority fail to form in the next parliament.
Topics: #budget #adopted #within
