President Yotova briefs UN Human Rights Commissioner on Bulgarian minority rights

Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova met with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk to discuss the treatment of the Bulgarian minority in North Macedonia. Yotova reported systemic institutional pressure and discriminatory practices based on ethnic origin, including instances of individuals being denied employment or university access due to their heritage.

During the meeting, the President highlighted the case of Iva Mihaylova, a 23-year-old dual citizen of Bulgaria and North Macedonia. Mihaylova has been prevented from traveling to Bulgaria for medical treatment due to ongoing legal proceedings in Kočani. Yotova noted that Bulgaria offered to either allow treatment in Bulgaria or send a medical team for consultation, but North Macedonian authorities declined.

Additionally, Yotova expressed concern regarding upcoming legislation in North Macedonia that she claims will have retroactive effects and infringe upon the freedom of association. She also raised the importance of developing adequate policies to protect human rights in the era of artificial intelligence.