Renew Europe President Valérie Hayer, ALDE Party President Svenja Hahn, Nikola Minchev MEP, We Continue the Change leader Assen Vassilev and the party's parliamentary group co-chair Nikolay Denkov held a meeting on last week with Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath to raise urgent concerns about the deteriorating state of the rule of law in Bulgaria.
The discussion focused on issues such as the politically motivated arrest and detention of Varna Mayor Blagomir Kotsev and the broader assault on democratic principles.
ALDE Party President and Renew Europe MEP Svenja Hahn, who had already sent an official letter to Commissioner McGrath, said:
“In recent months, we have witnessed an alarming pattern of political interference in judicial matters, increasing use of prosecutorial power to target opposition figures, and legislative efforts that risk eroding democratic checks and balances. These developments not only endanger Bulgaria's democratic institutions but also raise serious questions about its adherence to the EU's founding values.”
"The rule of law is the bedrock of our Union. It is unacceptable to misuse the justice system to target political opponents. Bulgaria deserves an independent judiciary — not one manipulated for political ends. That is why I have called for a debate in the European Parliament," stated Hayer.
Vassilev, Denkov and Minchev presented additional details on the situation. They highlighted the misuse of judicial institutions for political purposes and growing threats to democratic standards in Bulgaria. Upholding the rule of law is a fundamental EU value and must be ensured in every Member State.
Commissioner McGrath confirmed his commitment to monitoring developments in Bulgaria and to defending the rule of law across the Union.
“Selective justice is unacceptable, and Europe cannot stand by while democracy and fundamental rights are under attack," emphasised Minchev.