Bulgaria’s Fight Against Corruption: A Collective Effort Needed
A recent high-level forum in Bulgaria emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to combating corruption in the country. The event brought together government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and international experts to discuss ways to strengthen transparency and governance through collective action.
Collective Action Required
According to Gretta Fenner, Managing Director of the Basel Institute on Governance, fighting corruption requires sustained efforts from all sectors - government, private sector, civil society, and individual citizens. “No single stakeholder can do it alone,” she said. “Government cannot do it alone, or the public administration. If only citizens are left to fight corruption, they will struggle.”
Forum Organizers
The forum was organized by the Basel Institute on Governance and the Bulgarian Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce, the Bulgarian-Swiss Chamber of Commerce, and Transparency International Bulgaria.
Corruption: A “Cancer” in Bulgarian Society
Minister of Finance Assen Vassilev described corruption as a “cancer” that has deeply rooted itself in Bulgarian society. Participants agreed that the government, business sector, and civil society must work together to tackle the causes of corruption.
Solutions Proposed
- Minister of Regional Development Andrey Tsekov called for transparently publishing tenders and technical certifications online, stating that more than a third of public contracts are awarded with only one company bidding.
- Boni Bonev, Chair of the Bulgarian-Swiss Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the need to create a culture of integrity at all levels of political, business, and social life.
- Ivan Mihaylov, CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria, highlighted the importance of identifying and effectively eradicating recurring patterns of violations in vulnerable sectors like public procurement.
- Deputy Prime Minister Mariya Gabriel emphasized the need for a robust platform for dialogue between the public and private sectors to find solutions to corruption.
International Cooperation
The stakes are high, both within Bulgaria and with regard to its international reputation, investment, and trade. The government must look beyond its borders and collaborate internationally to support foreign investment and prevent the entry of corrosive capital.
Support from Basel Institute on Governance
The Basel Institute on Governance is ready to assist the Government of Bulgaria and all relevant stakeholders to launch innovative collective action initiatives to support the fight against corruption.
By working together, Bulgaria can overcome the challenges posed by corruption and create a more transparent and accountable society.