News

10 December 2025

On 10 December, we celebrate International Human Rights Day – a date established by the United Nations in 1950 in honour of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, which guarantees universal human rights. This fundamental document establishes the principles of human dignity, freedom, equality, and solidarity, which still form the basis of the modern international legal system for the protection of human rights.

In the spirit of these principles, the Council of Europe adopted the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, affirming the right to life, liberty and security, a fair trial, freedom of thought, conscience, religion and expression, and participation in democratic life. The document categorically prohibits torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the death penalty.

The Republic of Bulgaria is a party to all key international human rights instruments, and the 1991 Constitution enshrines the fundamental European standards for the protection of civil, political, social, economic, and cultural rights.

The Institution of the Ombudsman, established by the Ombudsman Act, is an independent national mechanism for the protection of human rights. The Ombudsman has "A" status – the highest international accreditation under the UN Paris Principles, which certifies full compliance with the standards of independence, pluralism, broad mandate, effectiveness, and public accessibility. This status gives the Institution extended opportunities to participate in international bodies, as well as to actively monitor and influence policies in the field of human rights.

The Ombudsman works to protect the rights of all citizens, including children, disadvantaged people, and the elderly, as well as to protect the right to healthcare, education, social assistance, and a dignified life. By accepting complaints, conducting inspections, making recommendations, and launching legislative initiatives, the Institution strives to be a reliable and accessible defender of human rights.

On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold human rights and freedoms, to develop democratic values, and to work for a society that is fair, united, and respectful of the dignity of every person.