„For the BSP as a social party, it was of key importance that the most vulnerable groups do not bear the brunt of the financial crisis in which the country finds itself. Despite the challenges, the government guarantees that taxes will not be increased and all social benefits will be preserved“, said MP from the BSP – United Left Nina Dimitrova.
She stressed that in addition to providing funds for social payments, the stability of the system must also be guaranteed. “The budget of the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy for 2025 will reach 3.5 billion leva – a record amount that will provide support for those in need”, she also said.
Dimitrova pointed out that thanks to the BSP – OL pensions will be indexed according to the “Swiss rule” – by 8.6% from July 1, and with the increase in the minimum wage and the poverty line, a number of social payments will increase, including the remuneration of personal assistants.
Among the priorities for the next budget, she indicated an increase in child birth benefits, an increase in maternity benefits in the second year, support for student mothers, an increase in the supplement for a deceased spouse and an increase in unemployment benefits. “First, however, we must stabilize the state. This is a rescue budget that will ensure sustainability, increased collection and working institutions“, said Dimitrova.
People's representative Bilyana Ivanova emphasized that the BSP – OL is betting on realism. “This is not the best budget, but it is the possible one. Now what is important is what will be done“, she said and added that the left will work for a mechanism to support parents, better care for children, as well as for increasing salaries in the social sphere.
“Users of social services must receive quality care. We will insist on new standards in social services, tailored to the needs of vulnerable groups, as well as for decent pay for social workers“, said Ivanova.
She emphasized that the BSP – The OL will support all three budgets to ensure stability and pave the way for real work for the benefit of society with an eye on Budget 2026.