Bulgaria gambling protest planned amid tax increase talks

Organizers have scheduled a large-scale protest against gambling for September 25, 2026, in front of the National Assembly in Bulgaria. Led by Svetlin Valchev, the movement targets aggressive advertising across billboards, the internet, and television. Protesters are demanding a total ban on outdoor advertising, an end to gambling streaming, and the removal of casinos located near schools.

Legislative efforts to curb the industry, including a bill from the ‘We Continue the Change’ party, were previously rejected. Deputy Boyar Bozhanov has raised official inquiries regarding the lack of control over street advertising. In response, Finance Minister Galab Donev noted that while the National Revenue Agency has issued 26 acts, these are currently being appealed.

Critics argue that institutional inaction stems from the government's reliance on hundreds of millions of leva in gambling revenue to cover budget deficits. Consequently, the cabinet is planning to increase the tax on gambling operators from 20% to 25% rather than implementing strict bans. The Ministry of Finance is currently preparing a comprehensive review of the regulatory framework.