Kathimerina 29 December 2025 - Reuters
The historic transition is accompanied by enthusiasm in the business world, but also by strong concerns of citizens about price increases and political instability
Bulgaria will become the 21st member state of the eurozone. This is the first new country to join since Croatia in 2023, bringing the number of Europeans using the euro to over 350 million.
Accession does not only mean the replacement of the leva with euro coins and banknotes, but also the country's participation in the Governing Council of the European Central Bank. Although Bulgarian governments have been seeking membership since 2007, when the country joined the EU, society remains divided, according to opinion polls.
Many citizens fear that adopting the euro will lead to price increases, while political instability – with the government recently resigning amid mass protests over tax measures – is fuelling mistrust. In a country with historical ties to Russia, there is also scepticism about further European deepening.
On the contrary, businesses and part of the citizens see the transition positively. In Sofia, prices are already displayed in leva and euros, while state campaigns are informing citizens.
