The National Network for Children, the Centre for the Study of Democracy, and the Bulgarian Fund for Women, in their capacity as members of the National Council for Protection and Prevention from Domestic Violence, addressed the Council of Ministers with specific questions regarding the launch of competitive funding programmes under Article 6e, paragraph 6 of the Domestic Violence Protection Act (DVPA) and Chapter Three of its Implementing Rules.
In 2024, by decision of the Council of Ministers, the National Programme for Prevention and Protection from Domestic Violence for the period 2024–2026 was adopted. According to this programme, as well as under Article 6e, paragraph 6 of the DVPA and Chapter Three of its Implementing Rules, funds should be provided to finance projects related to:
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social, psychological, and legal counselling;
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specialised programmes for the recovery and/or protection of persons or children who are victims or witnesses of domestic violence (including counselling centres and sheltered housing);
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specialised programmes for perpetrators of domestic violence aimed at overcoming aggression and managing anger.
These activities are set out in the Three-Year Work Programme of planned procedures for the period 2024–2026.
Serious concern is caused by the fact that throughout 2024 the allocated funds were not utilised, and as a result, these much-needed services did not receive funding.
As of July 2025, no competitive procedure for applications has yet been announced, despite the Work Programme for 2025 scheduling it for June.
On 3 June 2025, a meeting of the Council was convened, during which the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Council committed to moving the procedures forward as a matter of urgency.
The growing delay in launching the competitions raises concerns that the responsible institutions are neglecting the deepening problems associated with domestic violence and the escalation of cases in the country.
The absence of competitive procedures risks the financial loss of the allocated funds – as happened in 2024 – and the practical deprivation of support for children and families in need, a responsibility the State cannot afford to ignore.
