Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITUB) President Plamen Dimitrov stated on Monday that the 2026 state budget should be adopted within two months. Speaking at a press conference where the union presented data on the first quarter of 2026 cost-of-living wage, Dimitrov indicated that preparations for the regular budget have commenced. He noted the existence of an unofficial draft from the caretaker Cabinet, which is slated for the regular government.
Dimitrov added that with a clear parliamentary majority, the budget could be passed in a maximum of six weeks. CITUB formally advocates for the adoption of the second version of the 2025 budget, which was presented at the close of 2025. According to Dimitrov, this preferred draft outlined a 3% deficit, a 10% increase in personnel spending, and an 8.6% rise in pensions effective July 1, alongside a substantial capital program.
Beyond fiscal targets, the union expects the new budget to include robust support for public transport and targeted assistance for vulnerable populations. Specific proposals include maintaining current public transport fares and introducing free travel for pensioners, the socially vulnerable, and persons with disabilities for defined periods until price stability is achieved. Legislatively, the National Assembly amended the 2025 Budget Extension Act on March 18, keeping it operational until the regular 2026 State Budget Act is passed
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The timing of the budget adoption seems critical given the current cost-of-living pressures.
What specific steps does CITUB recommend the government take to expedite the adoption of the 2026 budget?