Bulgaria is constantly taking measures for more substantial integration into the European Research Area (EXE) and to strengthen its role in the European scientific community, according to a new report by the European Commission on the country and EX 2024: Bulgaria is monitoring the country’s progress in implementing common priorities and the introduction of key policy. Among the achievements highlighted is the Increased career attractiveness to research – Scholarships for doctoral titles increased by 23% in 2024 and researchers’ salaries are now linked to the average salary in the country. This is considered an important step for staying in the young age of trained experts and attracting new researchers.

Progress has also been made in the creation of new opportunities for international exchanges through the “Vihren” and “Petar Beron” programs as well as Swiss program Which, through the components of promys and sciex, supports the return of Bulgarian scientists from abroad and facilitates the mobility of young researchers between Bulgaria and Switzerland.

Another achievement for Bulgaria is the law recently issued For research and innovation (2024). It defines a single framework for the transfer of technology, open science, intellectual property protection and improved coordination between the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Innovation and Development.

The modernization of research infrastructure It is also included in positive developments. From the National Road Map for Research Infrastructure (2020–2027), 51 installations now operate, including centers of excellence and capacity centers. They are expected to serve as basic means of participating in national and European programs.

In terms of the support of green and digital transitionthe Commission notes that Bulgaria supports 249 renewable energy projects and has adopted the digital transformation strategy of 2024–2030. The country is already above the EU average in providing digital public service for businesses.

In relation to the international partnershipsBulgaria has participated in initiatives such as Prima (for cooperation in the Mediterranean) and European chips law through the creation of a national centers in the microelectronics.

The report also points out some challenges for Bulgaria, such as inadequate investment in research and innovation. The European Commission recommends in Bulgaria to reinforce synergies between national programs and program funding ‘Horizon Europe’in order to achieve higher quality research and greater international promotion.

  • The European Research Area is an EU initiative that began in the early 2000s. Its main aim is to create a single market for research and innovation that ensures the free movement of researchers, scientific knowledge and technology, while enhancing the competitiveness of the European economy and industry.