A number of reforms were outlined during the social policy negotiations between the representatives of “ We Continue the Change“, BSP, „There Is Such A People“ and „Democratic Bulgaria“, which are currently underway. However, it was hinted that their implementation will require a very serious financial resource and will discuss where to get it.
The BSP demanded an increase in the severity of each year of service after retirement age from 4 to 4,5. They also insist on the drafting and adoption of a Law for the Elderly, as well as on actions for their socialization.
For people with disabilities, they insist on an inclusive society and guarantee their right to work and a dignified life. The Socialists also want state social enterprises to be created and funding for these enterprises for people with disabilities.
Moreover, they stressed that the poverty line in the country should be adequately determined on the basis of the data because this methodology is constantly changing. They also want a definition of energy poverty and guarantee of minimum quantities of water for drinking and domestic use.
The BSP also wants to increase the amount of the minimum unemployment benefit. Because the maximum is limited to 60% of the income on which he was insured, and the minimum lags far behind that.
For families, they push for work-life balance for parents on flexible working hours and use of leave.
„We will need about BGN 10 billion a year for these proposals, but we will discuss them.“, Asen Vassilev responded.
„There Is Such A People“, on the other hand, announced that their social policy was developed in a horizontal direction and support.
Part of their emergency measures for the 2022 budget include revising the budget for state-delegated social service activities. They are adamant that workers should not be disadvantaged. Wages should not be stopped in any case. But you have to consider the 24-hour services that stayed but didn’t get any money for it.
The party also called for changes in the Personal Assistance Act, which will cost the budget an additional BGN 300 million. They envisage dropping the requirement for the decisions of the Territorial Expert Medical Commissions as access to personal assistance. In addition, to raise the limit on hours between 12 and 16, so as not to speculate that the budget will explode, and increase the rate from 1.2 to 1.4 of the minimum wage. We anticipate that this will double the budget for personal assistance users.
