British News Agency

According to a statement by Bulgaria's Ministry of Interior, the conference titled “Fair Legislation in Line with Europe,” organized by the Bulgarian platform of the European Women's Lobby, discussed Bulgaria's readiness to transpose and implement European Union Directive 2024/1385 on combating violence against women and domestic violence into national legislation.

Speaking at the opening of the conference, Deputy Minister Kaloyanov said a slow decline had been observed in reports of domestic violence cases and highlighted the role of police officers, who are often the first responders to such incidents. Kaloyanov said the first steps taken after a report is received are important for an appropriate response, emphasizing the need to follow established procedures and treat victims with care and sensitivity.

Kaloyanov said the professional training of police officers continued to be developed and that, in addition to responding to specific incidents, work was also continuing to prevent serious consequences. Shumanova said the Ministry of Interior wanted to play an active role both in combating such acts of violence and in the process of incorporating the requirements of the Directive into national legislation.

It was reported that the ministry is part of the interagency working group tasked with preparing the necessary legislative amendments. It was also stated that the “Domestic Violence and Gender-Based Violence” Automated Information System has been operational since the beginning of 2025, systematizing information and enabling authorities to track the steps taken in specific cases.

The statement also said a risk assessment mechanism was in place, adding that the methodological guidelines and operational algorithm developed help police units identify the risk of repeated or escalating violence at an early stage and take appropriate protective measures.