Bulgaria faces national demographic crisis as population declines

Bulgaria is experiencing a severe demographic crisis characterized by significant population loss and the depopulation of entire regions. According to recent data from the National Statistical Institute, only 50,241 live births were recorded in 2025, a decrease of 3,187 compared to the previous year. During the same period, 99,479 deaths were recorded, resulting in a negative natural increase of 49,238 people. Every region in the country reported more deaths than births.

Presidential candidate Ivaylo Simeonov has called for a fundamental shift in demographic policy, arguing that previous strategies have failed. He suggests that financial incentives alone are insufficient to address the issue. Instead, he advocates for a concept he calls ‘bytov mir’ (everyday peace), which focuses on providing young families with stability and predictability. This includes guaranteed access to kindergartens, quality education, healthcare, infrastructure, and employment opportunities to prevent young people from delaying family formation or emigrating.