The Rally at the National Palace of Culture

Amidst a backdrop of fervent nationalism, a packed Hall 1 of Sofia’s National Palace of Culture, capable of seating 3,380, resonated with excited support for maintaining the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). The event,orchestrated as a precursor to a nationwide presentation slated for May 31st,featured journalist Strahil Angelov announcing the date,and othre speakers,all framed by posters depicting a fierce lion,symbolizing Bulgarian strength and independence.

Key Figures and their Messages

The speakers, hailed as “apostles” by supporters, included Nedyalko Nedyalkov, Peter Volgin (a Member of the European Parliament from the “Revival” party), Victor Papazov (also a member of “Revival”), and Strahil Angelov. Dimitar Shivikov, a former military investigator, passionately declared that “the spring of the Renaissance of Mother Bulgaria cannot be stopped,” emphasizing the nationalist sentiment driving the movement.

Before the speeches, attendees referred to themselves as the “true National Assembly” and sang the anthem of the former People’s Republic, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era and its close ties with Moscow. This display underscored the complex interplay between economic concerns and historical allegiances in the debate over euro adoption.

symbols and Ideologies

Outside the hall, a poster featuring historical figures like Brezhnev and Todor Zhivkov alongside vladimir Putin and Nikolay Malinov, chairman of a Russophile movement, further illustrated the ideological underpinnings of the protest. Attendees expressed distrust of mainstream media, favoring alternative sources that promote anti-vaccine narratives, skepticism towards military acquisitions like F-16 fighter jets, and opposition to supporting Ukraine. This reflects a broader trend of disinformation and polarization affecting public opinion across Europe.

Security and Controversy

Security for the event was provided by Delta Guard, a private security firm that was previously implicated in a corruption scandal involving the seizure of an elevator business, as revealed in a 2020 inquiry by the Anti-Corruption Fund. This detail adds a layer of complexity to the event, raising questions about the motivations and affiliations of those involved.

Calls for action and Resistance

The rally served as a platform for calls to action against the adoption of the euro. Nedyalko Nedyalkov reportedly urged an armed uprising, while Strahil Angelov advocated for organized resistance. Kostadin Kostadinov, leader of “Revival”, called for a massive turnout of 100,000 people in Sofia on May 31st, aiming to demonstrate the power of popular opposition to what he described as “enslavement.” This follows a previous, smaller protest in February where the European Commission building was vandalized with red paint in opposition to the euro [[1]].

Peter Volgin whent further, framing the issue as a battle against European leaders, accusing them of undermining democracy and calling for a revolution to spread across the continent. His rhetoric reflects a broader narrative of euroscepticism and resistance to centralized authority gaining traction in some segments of European society [[2]].

I want on May 31 a hundred thousand people in the center of Sofia, thousands of all over Bulgaria to come out – let our enslaves feel the power of the people!
Kostadin Kostadinov, Leader of “Revival”

The Broader Context of Euro Adoption in bulgaria

Bulgaria’s potential adoption of the euro has been a contentious issue, sparking debates about national sovereignty, economic stability, and cultural identity. While proponents argue that joining the Eurozone would bring increased economic integration and stability, opponents fear the loss of control over monetary policy and the potential for price increases. The ongoing protests and rallies highlight the deep divisions within Bulgarian society regarding this issue, reflecting similar debates taking place across Europe [[3]].

Mounting Resistance to Euro Adoption

Bulgaria’s path to joining the eurozone is encountering significant turbulence, fueled by nationalist sentiments and increasingly unorthodox arguments against adopting the euro. The new government, which took office last month, has prioritized eurozone membership, aiming for entry by January 1, 2026 [[3]].Though, this ambition faces stiff resistance from various factions.

The Nationalist Backlash: A Fight for Freedom?

recent weeks have witnessed a surge in protests, with nationalist groups voicing strong opposition to the euro. These groups argue that adopting the euro undermines Bulgarian sovereignty and economic independence. One notably vocal group believes that Bulgaria “can show that it is indeed fighting for freedom” by resisting the eurozone. this sentiment echoes broader concerns about the perceived erosion of national identity within the European Union.

These protests sometimes escalate. In February 2025,Bulgarian nationalists vandalized an EU building in sofia,demonstrating the intensity of their opposition [[1]].

Accusations of “Fake” Data and Democratic Deficit

Beyond sovereignty concerns, a key element of the anti-euro rhetoric revolves around accusations of manipulated economic data. Critics allege that the government is presenting a false picture of Bulgaria’s economic readiness to join the eurozone. President Radev has been quoted as calling himself “the only legitimate institution” to bring out the real details about inflation as the current ones were fake.

This narrative extends to broader claims of a democratic deficit, with accusations that “sales elites destroy democracy” through their pursuit of euro adoption.The refrain is: Their choices are fake, their data are fake, don’t believe what they tell you – punish them, let them understand who the power is! This sentiment attempts to delegitimize the government’s pro-euro stance and galvanize public opposition.

The Role of External Influences and Unconventional Voices

The anti-euro movement has attracted support from various external figures, including economist Prof. Steve Hanke, known for his involvement in Bulgaria’s currency board implementation.Hanke has advocated for a referendum on euro adoption, pushing for a shift “from representative to direct democracy.”

Adding an unusual dimension to the debate, astrologers like Sylvia Doncheva have also weighed in, claiming that astrological charts indicate “an active national resistance to preserve the Bulgarian lev.” According to Doncheva, the alignment of Mars during key events signals opposition to the euro. While such arguments may seem unconventional, they resonate with some segments of the population.

Upcoming Assessments and Potential for Further Unrest

The European Commission (EC) and the European Central Bank (ECB) are expected to release convergent reports on June 4, potentially confirming Bulgaria’s readiness to adopt the euro. The date of May 31 was not chosen by accident. It is only a step away from June 4 – the day in which the convergent reports of the EC and the ECB are expected. According to preliminary information,they will confirm Bulgaria’s willingness to accept the euro.

These assessments could further inflame tensions,potentially leading to increased civil disobedience and calls for the government’s resignation. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether bulgaria can overcome the opposition and proceed with its eurozone ambitions.The political instability that has plagued Bulgaria since it joined the EU in 2007 [[3]] [[1]] could be exacerbated by the divisive issue of euro adoption.