In 2025, the Commission for Protection against Discrimination (CPD) received a significant increase in cases, initiating 518 proceedings related to protection against discrimination, according to CPD Chair Elka Bozhova in Montana. This figure marks a notable rise compared to the 179 proceedings initiated in 2024. The Commission subsequently issued decisions in 418 cases.
Bozhova noted that the most frequent complaints received by the CPD centered on workplace issues, specifically alleging discrimination in the exercise of the right to work, including instances where employers allegedly failed to adhere to collective labor agreements. Additionally, the Commission has addressed reports concerning hate speech disseminated through televised and media statements by politicians. Focusing on physical accessibility, the Montana Region conducted numerous inspections of publicly significant buildings under the “Accessible Bulgaria” campaign.
In 2025 alone, 62 proceedings concerning the accessible architectural environment were initiated. In the majority of these cases, building owners have implemented measures to ensure access for individuals with disabilities who previously faced significant barriers. Currently, a three-day professional development seminar is underway in Montana.
CPD lecturers are training civil servants from the town and region to better identify instances of discrimination and guide citizens to the appropriate CPD representation services. As part of this specialized training, participants are required to assume the role of experts tasked with determining whether discrimination has occurred in specific simulated scenarios.
Topics: #discrimination #proceedings #protection
The Commission for Protection against Discrimination (CPD) reported a substantial increase in activity in 2025, initiating 518 proceedings related to discrimination protection, according to CPD Chair