In her comments for European Western Balkans, Dr Rumena Filipova argues that Bulgaria’s new political stability is unlikely to translate into movement on key regional issues.
Her key points:
- No shift on North Macedonia: Radev is expected to maintain a firm line, particularly on the requirement to include a Bulgarian minority in the constitution — making compromise difficult.
- Low political urgency: Unlike in previous years, the Bulgaria–North Macedonia dispute is no longer central in domestic debate, reducing pressure on the government to act.
- EU relations will shape the region: Bulgaria’s stance on enlargement — and engagement with the Western Balkans more broadly — will depend on how Radev positions the country within the EU.
- Geopolitics matters: Approaches to Russian and Chinese influence in the region will be closely tied to Sofia’s broader foreign policy direction.