Despite calls for the president to veto the bill, it received strong support in parliament.

The measure was passed with over a 50% majority, showing that the Bulgarian parliament can stand united despite political instability and a seventh general election in three years just around the corner.

Joining us on TVP World to discuss this issue was Maria Simeonova, head of the Sofia office at the European Council on Foreign Relations think tank, who said the new law “may lead to societal disruptions”.