Sofia, Bulgaria – Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has signed a decree to promulgate controversial changes to the Law on Preschool and School Education, sparking significant public outcry and protests.
The amendments, approved by the National Assembly on August 7, have generated heated debate due to their focus on prohibiting the promotion or incitement of non-traditional sexual orientations and gender identities within the education system.
The amendments were introduced by the “Revival” (Vazrazhdane) party and passed with significant support in Parliament, with 135 deputies voting in favor, 57 opposing, and eight abstaining.
These changes aim to restrict the discussion and promotion of what is termed “non-traditional sexual orientation,” referring to emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction outside the conventional heterosexual norms accepted in Bulgarian legal tradition.
The swift parliamentary approval of these amendments, which occurred over two readings in a single sitting, has intensified public dissent.
Protests erupted outside the National Assembly building in Sofia immediately following the vote. Demonstrators voiced their concerns over what they perceive as a step backward in terms of human rights and inclusivity.
On August 12, the president’s administration received a petition signed by 7,038 citizens and 76 non-governmental organizations, urging President Radev to veto the new amendments.
Among the signatories were prominent groups such as the “Buditelkite Foundation” and the Youth LGBTQ+ organization “Deystvie.” The petitioners argued that the amendments infringe on fundamental human rights and promote discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Despite the public opposition and the petition, President Radev signed the decree, signaling his position on the matter. In a statement, the president’s office emphasized that the decision was made in accordance with the legislative process and the need to respect the outcome of the parliamentary vote. However, the office did not provide specific comments on the content of the amendments or the concerns raised by the protesters.
The amendments have drawn criticism from various human rights organizations, both domestic and international.
Critics argue that the changes will foster an environment of exclusion and stigmatization within the education system, ultimately harming the psychological and emotional well-being of students who identify as LGBTQ+. They also warn that such measures could lead to increased bullying and discrimination in schools.
Supporters of the amendments, however, argue that they are necessary to protect traditional family values and the moral development of children.
The “Revival” party has defended the changes as a means to preserve cultural and legal norms in Bulgaria, asserting that discussions of non-traditional sexual orientations and gender identities have no place in the educational curriculum.
The debate over the amendments to the Law on Preschool and School Education highlights a broader cultural and political divide in Bulgaria. As protests continue, the issue remains a contentious topic, with significant implications for the country’s education system and its approach to human rights.
As the nation grapples with these changes, the voices of both proponents and opponents of the amendments will likely continue to shape the discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and educational policies in Bulgaria. The unfolding events will be closely watched by advocates and critics alike, both within Bulgaria and internationally.