Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Read more
Thousands took to the streets of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, on Wednesday to denounce steep tax hikes in next year’s draft budget before its final vote in parliament.
The opposition coalition We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria organized the rally, which drew an estimated 20,000 protesters. The protest comes as the Balkan country prepares to join the eurozone at the beginning of next year.
The protest reflects widespread concern over the budget’s economic impact on individuals and businesses, including the increase in social security contributions and the doubling of the dividend tax.
Protesters formed a human chain around parliament and tried to block deputies’ cars, prompting police intervention to prevent violence. Police reported that demonstrators threw bottles and firecrackers at officers, injuring three.
Despite opposition from various social groups and warnings from economists that the draft carries significant risks, the budget will likely be approved since the coalition government holds a comfortable majority in parliament.
The budget sets a record for government spending at nearly 46% of GDP. This increase will be financed primarily through higher taxes on businesses and workers, as well as a sharp rise in public debt.
