Across Europe, and particularly in Bulgaria, the corrosive influence of George Soros’ philanthropic network has steadily eroded national identity, democratic discourse, and the public’s ability to pursue culturally appropriate, conservative policy solutions. Through a network of well-funded NGOs and media outlets, Soros has spent decades injecting a globalist ideology into domestic politics. An ideology often at odds with the will of local populations.
Liberal Media Bias
International media outlets such as BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera regularly promote progressive causes while giving little attention to conservative priorities like national sovereignty, cultural preservation, or border security. In Bulgaria, this messaging imbalance has taken root. The 2013 protests over Delyan Peevski’s appointment to a security role highlighted how quickly criticism of liberal narratives was dismissed. Those opposing the liberal line were immediately labeled as regressive or worse, while social media platforms lit up with accusations that Soros had “bought” the country’s media. A 2015 report noted 45% of Bulgarians distrust civil society, reflecting people’s skepticism toward foreign-funded media.
Where the Money Goes
Since 1990, Soros’ Open Society Foundations (OSF) has poured more than €100 million into Bulgaria, funding an ideological campaign under the guise of civil society. The recipients of his money read like a who’s who of leftist activism:
- The Bulgarian Helsinki Committee, which aggressively pushes migrant rights and identity politics, received €500,000 in 2023 alone.
- The Bulgarian Center for Non-Governmental Law, which advocates for vague “transparency” goals while pushing EU-aligned legal structures, takes in €300,000 per year.
- Bivol.bg, a so-called investigative outlet, is known for targeting conservative parties and figures. It has taken €200,000 from OSF since 2010 to promote Soros’ reformist agenda.
These groups operate in lockstep with Soros’ vision, targeting any form of nationalism, religious values, or skepticism toward EU centralization.
Shaping Public Perception
The influence of Soros-funded media outlets extends far beyond grant numbers. Their real value lies in narrative control. Bivol.bg, for example, routinely smears conservative politicians while promoting pro-EU reformers favored by Brussels.
Euractiv, despite its massive EU subsidies, still echoes OSF priorities, frequently framing anti-corruption in a way that demonizes populist or conservative leaders.
This ideological colonization has left little room for dissent. Nationalist voices are either drowned out or vilified. And while defenders of OSF claim they don’t “dictate editorial lines,” the pattern is unmistakable: Soros money flows only to those willing to undermine the conservative soul of the country.
The Cost of National Dialogue
What is at stake is more than media coverage. The influence of Soros-funded organizations has contributed to a political culture where traditional views are not just challenged but often excluded. This environment makes it harder for Bulgaria to pursue policy directions that reflect its unique identity and values. Soros-backed institutions pose a serious threat through their ideological consistency and strategic focus, working methodically to reshape culture and undermine national identity over the long term
Conclusion
Bulgaria’s future should be guided by its people, not by the priorities of foreign donors with a global ideological mission. The presence of Soros-linked organizations in Bulgarian media and civil society may appear benign to some, but the long-term consequences are far from neutral. As citizens look for ways to restore balance in public discourse and policy, a closer examination of this influence is not just justified, it is necessary.
