Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITUB) President Plamen Dimitrov stated that the 2026 state budget should be adopted within two months. Speaking at a press conference, Dimitrov provided data concerning the cost-of-living wage for the first quarter of 2026 and confirmed that preparations for the regular budget have commenced. Dimitrov addressed the current legislative process, noting that while an unofficial draft exists from the caretaker Cabinet, the final version should be determined by the regular government.
He asserted that if a clear parliamentary majority is established, the budget could potentially be passed in no more than six weeks. CITUB explicitly advocates for the adoption of a specific version of the budget presented at the end of 2025, which, according to the union, had not been fully enacted. This preferred draft included projections for a 3% deficit, a 10% increase in personnel spending, and an 8.6% rise in pensions beginning July 1, alongside a significant capital program.
Beyond fiscal figures, CITUB outlined key expectations for the new budget, including sustained support for public transport and targeted measures for vulnerable populations. The union further proposed maintaining current public transport fares while introducing free travel for pensioners, individuals with disabilities, and other socially vulnerable groups for certain months until price stability is achieved. Procedurally, the National Assembly recently amended the 2025 Budget Extension Act, which will remain in effect until the new 2026 State Budget Act is formally adopted.
Furthermore, caretaker Finance Minister Georgi Klisurski indicated that the caretaker Cabinet is prepared to submit a regular budget should a governing majority not materialize in the next parliament.
Topics: #budget #adopted #within
It’s important that the budget timeline is adhered to for economic stability.
What specific steps should the government take to ensure the 2026 budget is adopted within two months?