Ivaylo Kalfin says budget lacks leadership

Bulgaria’s government appears disorganized and unwilling to accept accountability for its spending framework, according to former Labor and Social Policy Minister Ivaylo Kalfin. Officials publicly distanced themselves from budget provisions immediately after announcing the plan, creating confusion about leadership and policy direction that discourages foreign investment following two years of political instability.

The document lacks meaningful reforms despite projecting a three percent economic expansion, Kalfin noted. Administrative bonus payments particularly frustrate citizens during widespread labor shortages that prevent private employers from offering competitive wages. Security sector salary increases require clear justification demonstrating public benefit.

Kalfin characterized proposals to modify taxation structures as premature, absent a comprehensive long-term fiscal strategy. The current flat tax disproportionately burdens lower-income workers while international capital continues flowing into Bulgarian markets.