“Since it joined the Council of Europe in 1992, Bulgaria has come a long way; thanks to the Council of Europe’s guidance in the years of transition, we managed to establish a modern democratic state where human rights and the rule of law are held high,” today said Rosen Plevneliev, President of Bulgaria, addressing the Assembly.

“The engine of European integration brought dramatic and positive change, including a developing economy. Over the years, Bulgaria has become a pillar of stability and an important factor in the Balkans, working to deepen regional cooperation,” he added. “The recent reforms undertaken by the government in the fields of education, security and justice are a proof that we are acting in a responsible way and achieving sustainable results,” he stressed, urging the Assembly to lift the post-monitoring dialogue with Bulgaria.

Talking about the challenges to be addressed, he pointed out in particular, the need of efficient mechanisms to guarantee the rule of law and the need of an early crises detection system and a proative approach. “We should not wait for weapons and crises to appear on our TV screens, in order to act,” he said.

Referring to the current migration crisis in the continent, Mr Plevneliev said that Bulgaria was following the rules of the Dublin Regulation and the Schengen Agreement. “Closing our doors to those fleeing for their lives is not an option. We show solidarity with all refugees and give humanitarian status to those that meet the criteria,” he stressed.

On the issue of terrorism and violent extremism, he stressed the need to address the causes of this global threat, not just the consequences. He mentioned social exclusion, inequality, lack of access to basic human rights, unemployment and lack of prospects as factors which fueled hatred and lead to radicalisation. “We can prevent the radicalisation of marginalised groups within our own societies only through education and integration,” he said.

Finally, he pleaded to restore the long term perspective, goal and vision of a united and peaceful Europe - with principles that prevail, not national interests – and supported the convening of a Summit of Heads of State and Government to reaffirm, at the highest political level, Member States’ commitment to the common values and principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Video of the allocution by Rosen Plevneliev

Video of the interview with Rosen Plevneliev

See also:
Bulgaria and the Council of Europe