"The demonstration outside the parliament building in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, on Monday afternoon was so big that it was hard to squeeze through the crowd. Although most people on the streets in Sofia were young, people of all ages were in attendance: from small children perched on their parents' shoulders to pensioners. "I never thought so many people would come out," one police officer was overheard saying to another as they stood on a small street packed with protesters near the main square."
"A big screen set up in the square was showing videos and memes that poked fun at politicians. This, the music being played and the flash mobs that popped up were evidence that young people were the driving force behind this protest. "I've never seen a protest by this Gen Z," said one slightly older protester. And right on cue, people nearby started chanting: "Gen Z won't stay silent!""
Tens of thousands of people held anti-government protests across Bulgaria, converging on Sofia's Independence Square where crowds packed streets and public transport. Participants ranged from small children to pensioners, with many young people carrying Bulgarian and EU flags. A large screen showed videos and memes mocking politicians, while music and flash mobs signaled strong youth involvement. Police officers noted surprise at the turnout. The demonstrations expanded an anti-corruption movement and targeted the government's proposed 2026 budget, which indicated increases in social security contributions and taxes. Employer organizations and trade unions labeled the budget "the worst".
Read at www.dw.com
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