Country Profile: Bulgaria
Population: just under 7 Million
Children under the age of 18: 1.2 Million
Country situation:
Bulgaria’s population has been in decline for decades due to social and economic hardships. It is projected that by 2050, less than 5.5 million people will live in Bulgaria. Almost 80% of Bulgarians identify as Christian, but much of this is part of the Bulgarian cultural identity, not a statement of faith. Less than 2% of Bulgarians are Evangelical Christians. Although the economic situation is slowly improving, Bulgaria remains one of the poorest countries in the European Union (EU). Approximately 35 % of the population are living in poverty. Young people, those over the age of 50, and those of Roma backgrounds find it particularly hard to find employment. The official unemployment rate is 6.1 %. Given that Bulgaria has one of the lowest minimum monthly wages in the EU, even those who are working struggle to make ends meet. The high levels of crime and corruption affect all levels of society. According to NGO Transparency International, Bulgaria is the most corrupt state in the EU. Bulgaria has one of the least developed health care systems in Europe, especially in rural areas. This is a troubling feature in a country with some of the poorest health indicators regarding infant mortality and a growing incidence of childhood diseases which include tuberculosis and cancer.
Bulgaria has the highest child poverty in Europe – over 50 % of children live in poverty or are at risk of poverty. Poverty is the main reason why children are in care. In spite of some government initiatives, more must be done to help families so that they can stay together.
Bulgaria Without Orphans:
A Bulgaria Without Orphans movement began in 2017, and was established as a non-profit in 2021. Bulgaria Without Orphans works to create conditions for every child in Bulgaria to grow up in a loving and supportive family, to develop their abilities and to best realize their personal potential.
Contact for Bulgaria without Orphans: bulgariawithoutorphans@gmail.com