Bulgaria: Unraveling a nation's soul in the name of Euro-Atlanticist obsessions
This deliberate destruction of historical monuments is indicative of a deeper malaise in Bulgarian politics.
Bulgaria has experienced a profound civilizational decline over the last three decades, marked by a slew of challenges that have left deep scars on its social, cultural and historical fabric. Since the pivotal changes of 1989 which opened the way to the restoration of capitalism, and more acutely following the tumultuous 'colored revolution' of 1996-1997, the nation has grappled with a maelstrom of economic, social, political, and cultural disasters. This series of events has not only eroded the foundations of Bulgarian society, but has also left the country's people feeling profoundly lost and hopeless. Bulgarians are currently struggling to stay afloat in these turbulent waters. Yet, political leaders are using the widespread sense of despair to manipulate and control rather than leading to recovery. In this situation, Bulgaria faces a major challenge for the future; the country is at a crossroads between preserving itself as a nation and continuing on a path toward total social breakdown.
The current coalition, a seemingly incongruous alliance of once-hostile parties, not only lacks a coherent plan to lift Bulgaria, the poorest EU country, but also harbors contempt for Bulgarian national identity and culture. Prime Minister Denkov, also known as Soros-Denkov for his affinity to ‘civic society’ organizations, exemplifies this aloof attitude.
His administration and him clearly suffer from a severe case of derangement syndrome when it comes to countries like Russia and China, while simultaneously displaying an unwavering and impassioned devotion to the West, especially the United States and the European Union.
These government's actions that I'd like to discuss in this article can only be viewed as a betrayal of basic Bulgarian norms.
Bulgarians have traditionally held a brotherly attitude toward Russia and respected figures such as Vladimir Putin, despite not being exactly aware of the Russian leadership's broader agendas and views. Simultaneously, while there is skepticism about the West's aggressive socioeconomic agenda, particularly regarding radical social and cultural changes, Bulgarians have never been fundamentally anti-Western. However, the current administration's policies, perceived (quite rightly!) as an attempt to redefine the nation's cultural and political DNA, are fueling a growing anti-Western sentiment. The systematic destruction of monuments and memorials is a poignant illustration of this clash. These acts are more than just vandalism; they are a strategic assault on Bulgaria's heritage and identity. Monuments that have stood as silent witnesses to Bulgaria's turbulent history since its independence in 1878 are being desecrated in an attempt to erase symbols that are deeply embedded in the national consciousness. This campaign against historical monuments is a direct affront to the Bulgarian spirit, aimed at destroying the last vestiges of national unity and identity. In pursuit of its Euro-Atlanticist obsessions, the government appears to be alienating a huge majority of the Bulgarian society. Rather than fostering social cohesion and addressing pressing issues such as poverty and underdevelopment, there appears to be a preference for aligning with Western ideals not so much over as at the expense of popular national sentiments.
There is no way not to interpret this approach as a betrayal of Bulgaria's historical legacy and an attempt to suppress traditional values and connections, particularly those with Russia, which hold a special place in the Bulgarian psyche. The irony is that, while attempting to promote a pro-Western stance, the government's actions are also instilling anti-Western sentiments in the populace (which is of course deemed ‘Russian propaganda’).
The recent emphasis on demolishing Russian monuments, in particular, is clearly a provocative move aimed at undermining Bulgaria's longstanding cultural ties with Russia. This act is viewed not only as an attempt to rewrite history, but also as a gesture of submission toward Western powers, particularly the United States. The government is more concerned with gaining praise from foreign diplomats than with meeting the needs and sentiments of its own citizens.
The destruction of monuments thus becomes a symbol of a larger struggle: the struggle between embracing a globalized, Euro-Atlanticist future and preserving Bulgaria's national heritage and identity, which has defined the country for centuries.
The Bonds of History: Bulgaria and Russia's Intertwined Past
Bulgaria's journey to independence and modernization is deeply rooted in its historical ties with Russia, which date back to the nineteenth century. The Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, initiated by Russia under the pretense of protecting Orthodox Christians within the Ottoman Empire, was a watershed moment in Bulgarian history. This war, driven by Russia's desire to expand its influence and protect fellow Slavs and Christians, resulted in significant victories over the Ottomans, culminating in the Treaty of San Stefano. This treaty, which was later revised by the Berlin Congress, laid the groundwork for an autonomous Bulgarian principality.
If it weren't for Russia's intervention, Bulgaria could have become another disunited and stateless nation like, say, the Kurds. Bulgaria and Russia's relationship evolved further in the twentieth century, with ups and downs. Another pivotal moment occurred at the end of World War II. Bulgaria initially joined the Axis powers because of foreign pressure and geopolitical circumstances. However, the Soviet Union's influence in the region played an important role in Bulgaria's decision to join the Allies in 1944.
This strategic realignment not only put Bulgaria on the winning side of the war, but it also cemented its close relationship with the Soviet Union. Under the influence of the Soviet Union, Bulgaria underwent a profound transformation after World War II. The Soviet Union's ideological, material, and political support was essential to Bulgaria's rapid industrialization and development.
This period saw a massive transformation of Bulgaria's economy and society. Large-scale projects were carried out, including the construction of schools, universities, state-owned farms, and the development of infrastructure such as railways, ports, and airports. The establishment of a nuclear power plant increased Bulgaria's energy independence and export potential. This period also saw significant advancements in Bulgaria's technological and military capabilities. The Soviet support was critical in transforming Bulgaria from a largely agrarian, and let's be frank — pretty primitive — society to an industrialized state, allowing it to export a wide range of goods, from food to technology.
The transformation also resulted in substantial improvements for millions of people who have been lifted out of poverty and illiteracy, improving their overall standard of life. The Soviet model of development served as a blueprint for Bulgaria's modernization, influencing its economic and social landscape for decades.
In essence, Bulgaria's historical trajectory, from its struggle for independence to its postwar modernization, demonstrates its long-standing relationship with Russia and later the Soviet Union.
The bonds formed in the nineteenth century during the Russo-Turkish War laid the groundwork for this deep and complex relationship. The subsequent Soviet influence shaped Bulgaria's path, resulting in significant economic and social progress.
To summarize, Bulgaria and Russia's intertwined history, which extends into the Soviet era, is more than just a story of geopolitical alignments; it is also a profound narrative of mutual influence and support. Monuments such as the Shipka Memorial Church reflect this history, as does the very fabric of modern Bulgarian society. It's a story of liberation, collaboration, and transformation, demonstrating how Bulgaria's current status as an independent and modern state is largely due to its historical ties with Russia and the Soviet Union. This deep connection, marked by both triumphs and challenges, is an essential component of Bulgaria's national identity and must not be overlooked when understanding its history.
A legacy desecrated: The destruction of Count Ignatiev's statues
Count Nikolay Pavlovich Ignatiev was a prominent Russian diplomat and statesman in the nineteenth century. His involvement in Bulgarian affairs peaked during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878, which shaped modern Bulgaria. Ignatiev played a crucial part in this war, advocating for Christian rights in the Ottoman Empire and urging Russian intervention, which was critical to Bulgaria's independence struggle. The Treaty of San Stefano, signed on March 3, 1878, was an immediate result of the Russo-Turkish War and a watershed moment in Bulgarian history.
This treaty is particularly noteworthy for its provisions concerning Bulgaria. It proposed the establishment of a large Bulgarian state that would encompass much of Bulgaria's inhabited territory, including parts of modern-day Serbia, North Macedonia and Greece. This was the first time a major international agreement acknowledged the existence of a Bulgarian nation-state. For Bulgarians, the Treaty of San Stefano represented national aspiration. It embodied the ideal of a ‘Greater Bulgaria,’ a dream of national unity and independence that has endured throughout Bulgarian history. The treaty's vision of a larger, sovereign Bulgaria is widely regarded as the closest manifestation of the Bulgarian national ideal, a time when the dream of national unity and independence seemed attainable.
The Treaty of San Stefano, and, by extension, Count Ignatiev's role in it, has become deeply ingrained in Bulgarian national consciousness. Ignatiev is honored not only for his diplomatic accomplishments, but also as a symbol of Bulgarian aspirations for national unity and independence. His contributions to the Treaty of San Stefano are widely regarded as pivotal in Bulgaria's eventual independence. The destruction of Ignatiev's statues is thus more than just vandalism; it is an affront to these deeply held national sentiments. It is an attack on a symbol of Bulgaria's journey to nationhood and achievement of its national goals. Ignatiev's legacy, intertwined with the dream of a unified and independent Bulgaria, is an important part of Bulgarian national identity, making the destruction of his monuments particularly poignant. An effort to erase a major chapter in Bulgaria's long fight for independence and national unity could easily be read into this act. Finally, Count Ignatiev's significance in Bulgarian history extends beyond his diplomatic endeavors. He is a symbol of Bulgaria's national aspirations, and the Treaty of San Stefano demonstrates what Bulgaria once aimed and hoped to achieve. The desecration of his statues is more than just hooliganism; it is a blow to Bulgaria's collective memory and national identity.
The economic and social turmoil of modern Bulgaria
Bulgaria's current state paints a somber picture. It's not just the poorest nation within the EU; it's a country grappling with profound social and economic problems. The once-thriving industries have collapsed, leaving behind a trail of decay and despair. The exodus of a third of its populace in search of better opportunities abroad speaks volumes of the dire conditions at home. Amidst this desolation, the nation's historical bond with Russia stands for many as a solitary beacon of hope and solidarity. For many Bulgarians, irrespective of their understanding of contemporary geopolitics, this sentiment towards Russia is a cherished legacy, a source of some kind of dignity in an otherwise bleak reality.
Red Army Monument: A symbol under siege
The plight of Sofia's Red Army monument is however the most heartbreaking chapter in Bulgaria's most recent record of memorials devastation. This monument is more than just an artistic expression; it represents the crucial period of Bulgaria's liberation from Nazi control and the beginning of its journey toward industrialization and modernization under the auspices of the Bulgarian Peoples Republic.
The desecration of this monument is more than just a historical affront; it demonstrates a flagrant disregard for the prevailing social sentiment which is one of Soviet-period nostalgia and brotherhood with contemporary Russia.
In their eagerness to align with external powers, the current authorities are clearly attempting to erase key chapters of Bulgarian history and identity that have shaped the nation's spirit. The role of the Red Army in Bulgarian history cannot be overstated. Without the Red Army's intervention, Bulgaria would have lost World War II and ended up on the wrong side of history. The intervention likely saved Bulgaria from potential partition and territorial losses after 1945. The Red Army played an important role in establishing Bulgaria as a modern state and society beyond the war. The period following 1945, marked by the influence and support of the USSR, saw the most growth and development in modern Bulgarian history. The USSR's economic, political, and military efforts were critical in Bulgaria's transformation into a modern nation.
In this light, destroying anti-fascist memorials like the Red Army monument is not only a form of historical revisionism, but also a dangerous normalization of fascism. It ignores the sacrifices that enabled Bulgaria's modernization and development. Demolishing the Red Army monument in Sofia is tantamount to spitting in the face of Bulgarian history and the legacy of those who fought for the country's independence and progress. It is a disservice to collective memory and a denial of the Red Army's profound role in shaping Bulgaria's destiny. This monument serves not only as a symbol of past struggles and victories, but also as a reminder of Bulgaria's complex and intertwined history. The loss of such symbols is tragic!
Beyond monuments: A nation's identity crisis
This deliberate destruction of historical monuments is indicative of a deeper malaise in Bulgarian politics. It reflects a troubling trend of historical revisionism, in which the past is not only forgotten but actively distorted. The impact of these acts extends beyond the physical damage The monuments themselves. It strikes at the heart of national consciousness, leaving a void where once there were symbols of unity and collective memory. As these icons fall, they carry with them stories of resilience, triumph, and shared heritage, leaving a nation unsure of its past and, as a result, its future.