A survey conducted by the Commission for Protection against Discrimination (CPD) analyzed the manifestations of economic discrimination in Bulgaria, surveying 592 respondents between November and December 2024. The study revealed that 53.7% of respondents reported experiencing some form of discrimination. In the labor market, the most frequently cited instances of discrimination occurred when hiring (47.8%), followed by issues related to pay (33.1%).
Other reported areas of concern included receiving additional benefits (32.6%), working conditions (26.1%), and career development (31.2%). The data indicates that older workers (53.8%) and ethnic minorities (50.4%) are among the groups most affected. Beyond employment, the CPD found that discrimination is reported in the provision of essential services, with 36.5% citing issues in accessing healthcare, education, and social care.
Other areas of concern include pricing of goods (27.2%), public procurement (27.9%), and financial services (25.4%). The CPD highlighted that negative perceptions toward certain groups, such as women and people with disabilities, were identified by 51.4% as the primary cause of economic discrimination. The Commission recommended strengthening anti-discrimination regulations, enhancing public awareness, and implementing regional measures to improve service and job access.
The CPD stated that the process for protection against discrimination is free of charge and easily accessible.
Topics: #discrimination #when #cpd