RAIR Foundation
Over ten thousand Bulgarians took to the streets to demand peace and neutrality in the country’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reports Novinite. The recent rally-procession titled “Bulgaria – Zone of Peace” and “No to War” was held in front of the National Palace of Culture (NDK) in Sofia, where demonstrators demanded a referendum to clarify the citizens’ position on the war in Ukraine.
The protesters held signs reading “No Bulgarian boys in the slaughterhouse!” and “Eastern Front again!!! – they will pass without us…” while waving Bulgarian, Samara, and even Russian flags. The participants of the initiative want to declare the people’s will for peace and have called for similar protests in seven other Bulgarian cities.
One of the demonstrators, Ivan Radichev, expressed his desire for Bulgaria to remain neutral, stating that the country has enough resources to be independent and free in the Balkans. Another protester, Miglena Yoncheva, said she joined the protest because she is a mother and wants a peaceful future for her children.
The protest blocked part of the center of Sofia and “Tsar Osvoboditel” boulevard between the presidency and the parliament. From the presidency, the procession headed to the building of the National Assembly and then to the “Orlov” bridge.
RAIR correspondent in Bulgaria, Tania Groth, provided the following videos and photos from Varna.
Similar demonstrations were held in 36 cities around the country. For example, in Bulgaria’s maritime capital Varna, representatives of non-governmental organizations, political parties, and citizens gathered near the Municipality with posters advocating peace and neutrality. Georgi Velikov, one of the rally’s organizers, emphasized that Bulgaria should be a zone of peace and that war should be resolved through diplomacy, negotiations, and talks rather than by sending troops and weapons.
The protests are a powerful expression of Bulgarians’ desire for peace and neutrality and a message to the government that they should represent the people’s will. The government must consider the concerns and opinions of its citizens before making any decisions that could lead the country to war.
Other similar peace marches will take place on May 2, 2023.
Amy Mek
Bulgarian people that I worked with did a great job. Honest and family oriented. Always friendly, never screwed around on the job. Customers called in to commend them, and the job they did too. I wish them happiness and peace. 👍