Policy Profile Bulgaria
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Policy Profile Bulgaria
Bulgaria, a member state of the European Union since 2007, continues to engage in processes that align its policies with EU standards, including those related to heritage and culture. This alignment is part of its ongoing commitment to the EU framework.
Bulgaria works closely with the European Commission and participates in various EU programs to enhance its development and integration within the EU. These include programs under the EU Cohesion Policy, such as the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), which support various development projects in Bulgaria. Bulgaria also engages in the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) to support neighbouring countries in their EU accession processes. The European Commission maintains a Representation in the capital, Sofia, and the Government of Bulgaria maintains a Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels.
Bulgaria’s approach to cultural policy and heritage preservation is characterised by its centralised governance structure with strong coordination between national and regional authorities. The Ministry of Culture is the primary body responsible for cultural policy, heritage preservation, and the promotion of Bulgarian culture both domestically and internationally. This includes the protection and promotion of Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage, which spans from ancient Thracian sites to modern cultural landmarks. The National Institute for Immovable Cultural Heritage (NIICH) is a key body under the Ministry, responsible for the registration, conservation, and management of immovable cultural heritage.
Regional administrations and municipalities play a significant role in implementing cultural policies and managing cultural heritage sites. They work in coordination with the Ministry of Culture to ensure the preservation and promotion of local cultural assets. Municipal cultural institutes, such as regional museums and cultural centres, are vital in promoting cultural activities and heritage at the local level.
View all Bulgaria policies gathered so far
* = This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence
