Bulgaria unveils comprehensive judicial reform plan for 2026–2030

Prime Minister Rumen Radev and Justice Minister Nikolay Naydenov have presented the ‘Justice’ section of the Bulgaria Management Program for 2026–2030. The plan outlines a comprehensive national strategy for radical judicial reform aimed at ending political pressure on magistrates and eliminating the influence of oligarchic circles within the legal system.

Key objectives include restoring the legitimacy of judicial appointments and ensuring integrity in the upcoming election of members to the Supreme Judicial Council. Minister Naydenov announced the creation of a confidential reporting mechanism via the Ministry of Justice website, allowing magistrates to report attempts to influence their independent voting.

Additionally, the government proposes constitutional changes to restore the President's powers regarding the appointment of caretaker cabinets. Prime Minister Radev also emphasized the importance of protecting the right to use cash payments as a constitutional measure to ensure personal freedom, citing similar practices in other European nations.