Bulgaria's high-speed internet market has seen a slowdown in subscription growth despite maintaining high connection speeds, averaging 90 Mbps. Market consolidation has led to a significant reduction in the number of internet service providers, with major mobile operators now dominating. The rise of mobile connectivity, driven by fast mobile networks, has contributed to the stagnation of fixed-line connections. Concurrently, the high-tech sector has experienced substantial growth, with a 10% increase in 2020 and significant job creation, although a labor shortage persists. High-tech companies, primarily focused on software export, contribute around 4% to Bulgaria's GDP.

Bulgaria is set to conduct its third parliamentary election of the year on Sunday, alongside presidential elections. The previous two elections failed to produce a coalition government, leading to the dissolution of parliament. Incumbent President Rumen Radev has been a significant figure, supporting anti-government protests in 2020 and leading opinion polls by over 20% ahead of the elections. Despite his involvement, the political landscape remains fragmented, making coalition formation difficult. Political expert Slavi Vassilev notes the central message for change in Bulgarian politics and the possibility of a runoff election given the unlikelihood of a landslide victory.

Bulgarians will vote for the third time this year on Sunday, also electing a president with limited powers. Incumbent President Rumen Radev, who has been active in politics, faces criticism and support for his actions during anti-government protests in 2020. The political landscape remains fragmented, making coalition government formation difficult. Radev leads in polls but a decisive victory is unlikely, suggesting a second round of elections.

The anti-establishment party 'Existe tal pueblo,' led by singer and TV presenter Slavi Trifonov, secured a surprising second place in Bulgaria's April legislative elections and is preparing for the upcoming elections. The party, known for its clear stance against traditional parties like Gerb, the Socialist Party, and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, focuses on engaging young voters through social media and traditional town hall meetings. Despite its success, the party remains vague about its governance plans, emphasizing the need to see election results before making decisions. Trifonov, who founded the party in 2019, will not run for parliament but may be eyeing a presidential bid.

Democratic Bulgaria, a center-right coalition, has launched its electoral campaign traditionally with pop rock concerts and plans to present anti-corruption reforms. The party, led by Hristo Ivanov, a former Justice Minister, aims to become a major player in the Parliament in the repeat legislative elections on July 11. Ivanov, known for his attempted beach landing near a powerful politician's villa and subsequent media storm, hopes to attract undecided voters. Despite their aspirations, experts predict a fragmented parliament similar to the previous one, making it difficult to form a functioning coalition.

In July of the previous year, thousands of Bulgarians protested against endemic corruption and demanded the government's resignation. The 'Trío Tóxico' led the anti-government campaign, allying with controversial former Socialist Party member Maya Manólova. However, as the movement shifted towards political goals, mass protests dwindled. Current protests are smaller, with participants feeling betrayed by the movement's leaders. Some factions, including parents of disabled children, continue to demand the government's resignation. Recent polls suggest the newly formed opposition coalition could secure 4-6% of the votes, enough to enter Parliament.

A large floating island of plastic waste has accumulated in the Iskar River near a hydroelectric dam in Bulgaria, primarily originating from Sofia. Local authorities have been criticized for their inaction and lack of resources to address the issue, with municipal workers previously caught dumping waste into the river. The only feasible method to remove the waste involves using the dam's system to gradually collect and eliminate it. The situation poses a risk of flooding and potential long-term environmental impact if the waste freezes during colder temperatures.

Bulgaria, facing the highest COVID-19 death rate in the EU, is preparing for its vaccination rollout starting December 27. Initial vaccinations will target health professionals, with broader public vaccination to follow. Health officials express concerns over public trust in the vaccine, noting that overcoming fear and hesitation is a significant challenge. The government has procured freezers to store vaccines at -70 degrees Celsius. Despite the start of the vaccination program, health measures will continue throughout 2021 until around 70% of the population is vaccinated.

Bulgaria has blocked the start of North Macedonia's EU accession talks, demanding that North Macedonia recognize the Bulgarian roots of its language and eliminate anti-Bulgarian rhetoric. Despite the blockade, Bulgaria remains open to dialogue but insists on resolving all bilateral issues first. Bulgarian Foreign Minister Ekaterina Zakharieva emphasized that unresolved bilateral issues indicate a candidate country's unpreparedness for EU membership. North Macedonia accuses Bulgaria of hindering its right to self-determination and not showing friendship by blocking the talks.

Anti-government protests in Bulgaria have entered their second month, with demonstrators employing tactics such as road blockades, hunger strikes, and threats of self-immolation. Protesters, including military journalist Silvia Sirakova-Gvozden and lawyer Nikolay Gatsev, are expressing their discontent with the government, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, his administration, and the chief prosecutor over allegations of corruption. Despite initial indications of willingness to resign, Borissov has decided to remain in office until the end of his term, citing the need to address the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact. The protests have seen thousands of participants and have been met with police action to clear blockades.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Boïko Borissov's offer to resign has not quelled ongoing protests demanding the entire cabinet's resignation and new elections. Demonstrators accuse Borissov of oligarchic ties and continue to block roads in Sofia and other areas. The protests have led to increased polarization in Bulgaria, with calls for the resignation of Chief Prosecutor Ivan Geshev. Despite the unrest, Borissov's GERB party remains the leading political force according to recent polls.

The EU Mobility Package, facing a final vote in the European Parliament, is met with strong opposition from Eastern European countries, particularly Bulgaria. Transport companies fear competitive disadvantages and economic impacts, with smaller firms at risk of bankruptcy and Bulgaria's GDP potentially contracting by 3%. The policy also raises ecological concerns due to the likelihood of increased empty truck journeys. Bulgarian MEP Angel Djambazki criticizes the package as anti-economic and akin to communism.

Bulgaria is encouraging local supply chains to rejuvenate its agricultural sector, with new rules favoring short supply chains for retail products. Major retailers like Maxima Bulgaria are adapting by securing contracts with local producers. Farmers welcome these measures, though they criticize the EU's subsidy policies and the impact of sanctions on Russia. The European Commission warns against protectionist measures, urging Bulgaria to find a solution within a month.