Bulgaria Adopts Euro Amidst Political Chaos, Corruption Protests & Public Skepticism

• Bulgaria officially adopts the Euro, becoming the 21st country in the Eurozone, despite widespread political instability and public opposition.
• The government recently resigned, faces an outdated budget, and nearly half the population prefers retaining the national currency, the lev.
• Deep-seated anger over corruption, cronyism, and a history of unstable governments fuels protests, with an eighth election in five years anticipated.
• Despite strong economic growth and low debt, Bulgaria has the EU's lowest per-capita GDP and highest income inequality, leading to significant emigration.
• The EU has criticized Bulgaria's rule of law and anti-corruption efforts, delaying recovery funds, while citizens accuse the political elite of theft.

Why It Matters: Bulgaria's Euro adoption is overshadowed by political turmoil, corruption, and public distrust, highlighting deep-seated issues.