The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITUB) has called for the 2026 state budget to be adopted within two months, according to President Plamen Dimitrov. Speaking at a press conference, Dimitrov outlined the union’s expectations while noting that preliminary work on the regular budget has commenced. He mentioned an unofficial draft originating from the caretaker Cabinet, which is slated for review by the regular government.
Dimitrov added that with a clear parliamentary majority, the budget could theoretically be finalized in no more than six weeks. CITUB advocates for the reinstatement of the second version of the 2025 budget, which they stated has not yet been enacted. This preferred draft included provisions for a 3% deficit, a 10% increase in personnel spending, and an 8.6% rise in pensions starting July 1, alongside a significant capital program.
Beyond fiscal targets, the union emphasized support for public transport and the implementation of targeted measures benefiting vulnerable populations. Specifically, CITUB 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. Legislatively, the National Assembly recently amended the 2025 Budget Extension Act, which will remain in effect until the new 2026 State Budget Act is passed.
Furthermore, caretaker Finance Minister Georgi Klisurski indicated that the caretaker Cabinet is prepared to submit a regular budget proposal should a governing majority fail to form in the next parliament.
Topics: #budget #adopted #within
