A new poll by the sociological agency Alpha Research indicates a continued decline in public support for Bulgaria’s ruling coalition. Positive assessments have dropped from 39% in January to just 26% in July, while negative opinions have risen from 29% to 39%. The survey, conducted between 7–14 July among 1,000 adult respondents, highlights growing dissatisfaction with the government’s performance.

Criticism stems mainly from opponents of Bulgaria’s planned eurozone entry, citing fears of rising prices. Broader discontent also reflects frustration over the state’s failure to address long-standing systemic issues — including failings in healthcare, the exposure of illegal elderly care homes labelled “houses of horror”, poor infrastructure, road safety concerns, and rising youth violence.

The deepening rift within society is further underscored by parliament’s dismal ratings: just 8% approval versus 69% disapproval — even lower than support for the governing parties themselves.

President Rumen Radev remains the country's most trusted political figure, though his backing has also slipped. His proposal for a referendum on euro adoption has proven divisive, with his approval rating falling from 44% in January to 39% in July.

In terms of party standings, GERB continues to lead with 25.5% support, followed by We Continue the Change–Democratic Bulgaria (PP–DB) at 13.9%. The DPS–New Beginning sees a rise to 13.1%, while the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (APS) has collapsed to just 2.8%.

Significantly, 49.7% of respondents said they would vote for a new political party that presents itself as a genuine force against corruption.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova

Posted in English by E. Radkova