In 2025, the Commission for Protection against Discrimination (CPD) initiated 518 proceedings related to combating discrimination, marking a significant increase from the 179 proceedings filed in 2024, according to CPD Chair Elka Bozhova during an address in Montana. The Commission subsequently issued decisions concerning 418 of these cases. Bozhova noted that the most frequent complaints received by the CPD centered on discrimination in the employment sector, including instances where employers failed to adhere to established collective labor agreements.
Additionally, reports concerning hate speech disseminated through televised and media statements by politicians were also addressed. Focusing on physical accessibility, the Montana Region conducted numerous inspections of publicly significant buildings under the Accessible Bulgaria campaign, resulting in 62 proceedings concerning the accessible architectural environment in 2025. In most observed cases, building owners have since implemented measures to improve access for people with disabilities.
To enhance public awareness and response, the CPD is currently hosting a three-day professional development seminar in Montana. This training educates civil servants from the town and region on recognizing various forms of discrimination and directing individuals to the CPD representation services for necessary protection. During the seminar, trainees participate in role-playing exercises, simulating expert evaluations to determine if an act of discrimination has occurred.
These efforts underscore the Commission’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the legal protection against discrimination across Bulgarian society.
Topics: #discrimination #proceedings #protection
