Sofia in the news: Bulgaria flips to the euro amid political turmoil and big protests; capital on the front line of reform and corruption fights. Capital of Bulgaria, in the Sofia Valley near Vitosha.
Bulgaria has held its eighth parliamentary election in five years, resulting in a decisive victory for Rumen Radev's Progressive Bulgaria coalition. The win has allowed Radev to form the country's first single-party government in nearly 30 years, promising to tackle corruption and provide political stability after years of fragmented parliaments and protests.
With 96% of ballots counted, Bulgaria's Progressive Bulgaria coalition has secured 44.7% of the vote, leading over the center-right GERB party. Rumen Radev, a former president and Eurosceptic, has declared victory and aims to form a government. The election follows protests and political instability.
Bulgaria has won Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with Dara's Bangaranga, finishing on 516 points. Israel's Noam Bettan has finished second on 343 points amid protests and a five-country boycott over Israel's war in Gaza. Organisers have tightened voting rules after allegations of organised voting for Israel.