These are some of the findings, including cruelty, inhuman or degrading treatment on behalf of the government
Torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment and punishment, serious problems with the independence of the judiciary and corruption in government. These are part of the conclusions of the report on Bulgaria of the United States Department of State on human rights for the year 2023.
The document says there is credible evidence of crimes and violence motivated by anti-Semitism, as well as crimes against homosexuals. The report does note, however, that the government has taken steps to identify and punish officials who may have committed human rights abuses. According to Washington, however, these actions were often insufficient and impunity was a problem.
The judicial system
The constitution and law provide for an independent judiciary, but corruption, inefficiency and lack of accountability are serious problems affecting the independence and impartiality of the judiciary. The independence of the judiciary was compromised and public confidence in the judiciary remained low as magistrates were susceptible to political pressure. On May 30, the non-governmental organization “Anti-Corruption Fund” published an interview with the ex-wife of Petyo Petrov-Euroto – Lyubena Pavlova. In it, she claims her ex-husband influenced prosecutors through bribery and influence peddling, extortion and career incentives. According to Pavlova, high-ranking government officials knew about Petrov’s activities and also participated. On May 31, the Sofia District Prosecutor’s Office announced that an arrest warrant had been issued for Petyo Evroto on charges of participation in extortion and illegal surveillance and wiretapping. Since November, he has been wanted by Interpol, Europol and the Schengen Information System.
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