Since 2006, key rulings of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) related to the Macedonian minority in Bulgaria remain unimplemented. A recent report published by Democracy Reporting International, in collaboration with the European Implementation Network, highlights the ongoing failure of European Union (EU) member states to fully implement rulings from both the ECHR and the Court of Justice of the EU. This failure undermines democracy and the rule of law within the EU.
The report points out that 624 ECHR rulings are still awaiting full implementation, with Romania, Hungary, and Bulgaria ranking among the worst offenders. Bulgaria, in particular, has one of the highest numbers of pending rulings with 89 unimplemented cases, many of which concern fundamental human rights, including minority rights and fair trial conditions.
A key focus of the report is Bulgaria’s refusal to register associations representing the Macedonian minority, such as United Macedonian Organization (UMO) “Ilinden,” despite ECHR rulings dating back to 2006. The national courts have repeatedly denied registration on grounds of national security and public order, even though the ECHR has deemed these refusals unjustified and disproportionate. The report further criticizes the continued administrative barriers and legal obstacles preventing these associations from gaining recognition. It also emphasizes how the delay raises serious doubts about Bulgaria’s commitment to upholding human rights.
In light of these findings, the report calls for urgent action from the Bulgarian authorities to align their practices with European human rights standards. More than 17 years have passed since the first ruling, and the Macedonian minority continues to face systematic denial of its right to association. Democracy Reporting International urges EU member states, particularly Bulgaria, to respect the binding decisions of the ECHR and to take immediate steps to implement these rulings, safeguarding the rule of law and the democratic values on which the EU is founded.
Call to Action: Support UMD’s Advocacy Efforts
The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) is deeply concerned by Bulgaria’s ongoing disregard for the rights of the Macedonian minority. As an organization committed to advocating for the protection of Macedonian minorities globally, UMD is calling on the international community, human rights organizations, and EU member states to join us in urging Bulgaria to comply with the ECHR rulings.
UMD continues to work tirelessly to raise awareness of this issue at the highest levels of government, and we are currently engaging with key stakeholders in the EU and the Council of Europe to push for accountability. The time for action is now, and UMD is committed to ensuring that the fundamental rights of the Macedonian minority in Bulgaria are fully recognized.
How You Can Help:
- Contact your representatives: Urge them to raise the issue of ECHR non-compliance at EU forums.
- Support UMD: By donating to our advocacy efforts, you can help us continue our fight for justice for Macedonians in Bulgaria.
- Raise awareness: Share this press release and follow UMD’s updates on social media to amplify the message.
We cannot stand by as these injustices persist. Join us in demanding that Bulgaria respects its obligations under European human rights law.
About UMD:
The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) is an international non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of Macedonians and promotes Macedonian culture globally. Since 2004, UMD has been at the forefront of defending the rights of Macedonian minorities, pushing for justice, equality, and human rights across the world.
