Historical Context and Emerging Controversies

Situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe, Bulgaria finds itself embroiled in a contentious debate over the place of the Russian language within its educational system. This controversy is deeply rooted in centuries-old cultural connections between Bulgaria and Russia, shaped by shared history and linguistic ties. However, recent geopolitical developments have intensified scrutiny over these ties, with some voices accusing educational authorities of fostering a “Russophobic campaign” aimed at diminishing Russian language instruction.

The core of this dispute lies in balancing respect for historical bonds against concerns about foreign influence amid rising regional tensions. Critics argue that continuing to promote Russian language education risks perpetuating undue allegiance to an external power whose political actions have raised alarms across Eastern Europe. Conversely, advocates emphasize that learning Russian remains valuable for students’ global competence given Russia’s ongoing role as a major player in diplomacy, commerce, and culture.

The Role of Language Education in Shaping National Identity

The debate extends beyond pedagogy into questions about Bulgarian cultural identity itself. Supporters contend that maintaining robust Russian language programs enriches multiculturalism within schools by…