BULGARIAN FOREIGN POLICY ANALYSIS

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INTRODUCTION

Bulgarian foreign policy is a complex and dynamic field, shaped by the intricate interplay of geopolitical realities, historical legacies, and the strategic imperatives arising from its membership in key international organizations. As an active participant in the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Bulgaria's foreign policy is inherently intertwined with the collective decisions and shared values of these alliances. However, like any sovereign nation, Bulgaria also navigates its external relations with a keen awareness of its own national interests, seeking to balance alignment with its allies and the pursuit of its specific objectives.

This delicate balance lies at the core of deciphering Bulgaria's 21st-century foreign policy alignment. Bulgaria's position at the centre of the Balkan Peninsula, an area with a historic pattern of geopolitics and the reorganisation of alliances, means that there needs to be a pragmatic and subtlety-tinted attitude toward foreign relations. Bulgaria's own historical experiences, such as its previous membership of the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War and subsequent transition to democracy and a market economy, have also had a deep impact upon its foreign policy concerns and its strategic culture.   Since becoming a member of NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007, Bulgaria has reaffirmed its support for Euro-Atlantic integration and adopted the values of collective security, democracy, and the rule of law. Both memberships have offered Bulgaria opportunities and challenges, necessitating that Bulgaria harmonize its foreign policy with the wider goals of the EU and NATO as well as protecting its sovereignty and advancing its national interests.   But Bulgarian foreign policy is not exclusively dictated by its international obligations. Internal forces, including the character of its political regime, the impact of public opinion, and the limitations of its economic resources, also significantly contribute to its external policy. Grasping the dynamic interaction among these internal and external forces is necessary for an exhaustive examination of Bulgaria's foreign policy decision-making process.   This essay will seek to examine the most significant drivers and dynamics of Bulgarian foreign policy in the 21st century, particularly its attempts to balance its role as a devoted member of the EU and NATO and as an independent state working towards its own strategic interests. To do this, the essay will utilize a realist prism, recognizing the value of national interest, power, and security as determinants in guiding Bulgaria's foreign policy decision-making. The realist school of thought offers a helpful prism through which to analyze the ways in which Bulgaria negotiates the intricacies of the international system, pursues its national security, and aims to improve its standing within the region and globally. Nonetheless, the analysis will integrate findings from other theoretical approaches, including liberalism and constructivism, to ensure that the foreign policy orientation of Bulgaria is comprehensively and complexly understood. State-level analysis will also be conducted by the essay to explore domestic factors in Bulgaria's foreign policy decision-making. This will involve an examination of the part played by political institutions, public opinion, economic limitations, and legacies from the past in shaping the nation's foreign relations. By taking into account both the foreign and domestic aspects of Bulgaria's foreign policy, the essay aims to give a complete and insightful analysis of its strategic conduct. The major primary sources utilized to substantiate the arguments developed in this essay will be government documents, policy declarations, and speeches of Bulgarian government leaders, along with primary documents from the EU and NATO that present Bulgaria's obligations and commitments. These primary sources will give immediate evidence of Bulgaria's foreign policy priorities and involvement with the global community. Secondary sources will include academic publications, research articles, and expert analyses on foreign policy and international relations.  Secondary sources will provide theoretical insights, empirical research, and varied perspectives regarding Bulgaria's foreign policy, supplementing the analysis and providing an extended background on its strategic decision-making. By taking this multi-faceted strategy, this essay hopes to add to a better understanding of Bulgaria's foreign policy and how it fits into the new geopolitics of the 21st century.

Theoretical Perspectives and Historical Background

The analysis of Bulgarian foreign policy requires a multifaceted approach, drawing upon various theoretical perspectives to capture the complexity of its strategic behaviour. Liberalism, realism, and constructivism each offer valuable insights into the factors that shape Bulgaria's external relations, providing a framework for understanding its priorities, alliances, and actions on the international stage.

Liberalism, which focuses on cooperation, interdependence, and sharing common values, is especially apt to describe Bulgarian relations with the EU and NATO. Bulgaria's membership in both institutions expresses its devotion to multilateralism, institutionalised cooperation, and sharing common aims. The EU, which is concerned with economic integration, democracy, and human rights, offers a model for Bulgaria's foreign policy in trade, development, and regional cooperation. NATO, as a collective defence system, influences Bulgaria's security and defence policies by stressing solidarity and collective responsibility for ensuring peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic region. Yet, a strictly liberal approach cannot fully account for Bulgaria's foreign policy. Realism, with its emphasis on national interest, power, and security, provides a key prism through which to view Bulgaria's strategic calculations in a complicated and frequently competitive international context. Bulgaria's geographical position in the Balkans, a region long characterised by instability and great power rivalry, requires a realist mindset that considers Bulgaria's territorial integrity, political sovereignty, and economic health paramount. Bulgaria's moves to modernize the armed forces, diversify the energy base, and secure its borders affirm a genuine concern with the protection of its national interests in an adversarial geopolitical environment.  Constructivism provides additional insight by pointing to the influence of identity, norms, and ideas in the formulation of Bulgarian foreign policy. Bulgaria's past, cultural sympathies, and nation-building narratives drive its attitudes towards other nations and its position on the global scene. Bulgaria's dedication to enhancing democracy and human rights in the Balkans, its attempts at regional cooperation and stability, and its changing ties with Russia are all determined by constructivist drivers.   Traditionally, Bulgaria's foreign policy has been conditioned by its position in the Balkan Peninsula, with its rich and complicated history of empires, wars, and changing alliances. The Ottoman legacy, the Balkan Wars, and the two World Wars have left a lasting imprint on the country's national identity and relations with the neighbours. Bulgaria's history as a communist state in the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War and subsequent transition to democracy and market economy have also greatly influenced its foreign policy orientation. Bulgaria's entry into NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007 represented a firm turn towards foreign policy orientation firmly within the Euro-Atlantic community. These memberships have given Bulgaria new avenues for economic growth, security collaboration, and regional leadership, yet they have also posed dilemmas for balancing national interests and the membership obligations of an alliance.

LIBERALISM IN BULGARIAN FOREIGN POLICY

Liberalism, as a theoretical approach to international relations, emphasises cooperation, multilateralism, democracy, human rights, and economic interdependence in foreign policy making. The making of foreign policy in Bulgaria has been influenced by liberal ideas, especially after the end of the Cold War and the demise of the Soviet Union. Bulgaria's evolution from a Soviet satellite state to a member of the EU and NATO illustrates the implementation of liberal ideals in its foreign policy. In this paper, we analyse the implementation of liberalism in Bulgarian foreign policy, including its adherence to international institutions, democratic principles, and economic integration within the West. Bulgarian foreign policy has changed drastically since the 1989 demise of communism. Under the authoritarian regime of the People's Republic of Bulgaria, foreign policy was dictated to a great extent by Soviet interests. However, with the onset of democratic reform and market-oriented policies in the early 1990s, Bulgaria began embracing liberal principles for both domestic and foreign policy. Basic elements of liberalism, such as international cooperation, democratic peace, human rights, and economic interdependence, became integral to Bulgaria's foreign policy goals. Most obvious, perhaps, has been liberalism's dedication to international institutions in Bulgarian foreign policy. Bulgaria's ambitions to become a member of the European Union (EU) and NATO in the post-Cold War era are indicative of the liberal faith in the value of multilateralism and international cooperation. The EU, as a force of peace, stability, and economic integration, has been an important influence on the foreign policy agenda of Bulgaria. Bulgaria became a member of NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007, which signified the final break with its former Soviet-era allies. These acts were not symbolic only but testified to Bulgaria's desire to make itself a member of the liberal international order and benefit from the stability, economic prosperity, and security that comes to members of these organisations. Membership in NATO, in particular, adhered to liberal precepts in reinforcing the idea that democracies do not engage in war with each other and that collective security arrangements promote stability (Russets, 2005).

Bulgaria's EU and NATO membership decision-making still affects its foreign policy decisions, and that too in a tilt towards cooperation instead of conflict. Bulgaria's liberal inclination is also evident in its promotion of democracy and human rights. Liberal theory believes that democracies are predisposed to peaceful involvement and advocacy of human rights in the international environment. Ever since its Democratization in the 1990s, Bulgaria has been a firm promoter of human rights and democracy in its domestic as well as foreign affairs. The Bulgarian foreign policy has demonstrated that it is interested in promoting human rights through its active endorsement of various international activities, e.g., the UN human rights agenda. In addition, Bulgaria has assisted in the diffusion of democratic reforms in its neighbours, particularly in the Western Balkans. Being a member of the EU, Bulgaria has supported the process of enlargement, encouraging democratic reforms in countries like Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia, as predicted by the liberal assumption of democracy diffusion.

Economic Interdependence and Liberal Trade Policy

Liberalism emphasises the importance of economic interdependence as a way to prevent conflicts and foster cooperation. Bulgaria’s foreign policy has been strongly influenced by the economic integration it has pursued since the 1990s. The EU has played a significant role in Bulgaria’s economic transformation, as the country has become increasingly integrated into the EU’s single market. Trade liberalisation and the expansion of market economies across the region are key tenets of liberalism, and Bulgaria has actively participated in these processes. Bulgaria’s trade policy is characterised by its commitment to free trade and economic cooperation with neighbouring countries and global powers. As a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Bulgaria supports the liberalisation of global trade and has made efforts to promote the free movement of goods, services, and capital. This economic integration not only strengthens Bulgaria’s economic position but also reinforces the liberal ideal that economic interdependence fosters peace and stability. Bulgaria's foreign policy has been shaped by its strategic interest in ensuring stability and cooperation in the Balkans. The liberal belief in regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence is evident in Bulgaria’s active participation in various regional initiatives, such as the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP) and the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA). Bulgarian backing of Western Balkans' European integration is a constant of its foreign policy due to the fact that the nation holds the view that EU membership can establish peace and stability in the region. Bulgaria also helped to build bilateral relations with some neighbouring states, like Greece, Turkey, and Serbia. They are founded on a shared devotion to peace and economic cooperation, and they reflect the liberal presumption that security and prosperity are increased by regional cooperation.

EU and BULGARIA

Bulgaria's entry into the European Union is an example of intricate integration, setbacks, and continuous improvement. Bulgaria has attempted to balance the benefits and obligations of EU membership since its accession in 2007, working towards integrating its economic and political systems into European norms. This has been a journey of immense success and also lingering setbacks. One of the most important aspects of this relationship is Bulgaria's economic integration. Membership in the European Union has created access to the single market and thus encouraged trade and foreign investment. However, Bulgaria still grapples with economic disparities in comparison with other EU member countries. Testimony from data available in the European Innovation Scoreboard shows that GDP per capita is significantly less for Bulgaria compared with the EU mean. Besides, while some improvement in the economy has occurred, concerns still arise about the pace of convergence. Such factors as infrastructure deficiencies and governance challenges have been singled out as obstacles to more rapid economic advancement. Additionally, an examination of the European Innovation Scoreboard report prepared by the European Commission demonstrates that Bulgaria belongs to the group of emerging innovators but nevertheless remains below the EU averages on numerous indicators. For example, when it comes to digital competencies and lifelong education, Bulgaria has much lower levels of performance compared to the other EU member countries. Additionally, governance and the respect for the rule of law are a key element in the EU-Bulgaria interaction. Corruption-related concerns and calls for judicial reform have been longstanding priorities in the European Union's reports on Bulgaria. These are the areas to be strengthened in order to ensure trust and proper implementation of policies of the European Union. Reports from institutions such as the European Commission identify the necessity to rectify these matters to improve the integration of Bulgaria into the EU system. EU membership, however, has also generated numerous advantages for Bulgaria, such as access to EU funds, which makes possible the improvement of infrastructure in addition to a number of economic and social programs. These funds have been instrumental in the modernisation of Bulgaria's infrastructure and economic transition. In addition, the European Union has given Bulgaria a framework within which it can enhance its legal codes and levels of regulation.

Looking forward, Bulgaria's future within the EU hinges on its ability to address its remaining challenges. This includes:

• Economic convergence: Continuing efforts to boost economic competitiveness and reduce disparities.

• Governance reforms: Strengthening the rule of law and combating corruption.

• Digital transformation: Investing in digital infrastructure and skills to participate fully in the digital economy.

NATO and BULGARIA

Bulgaria's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in 2004 represents a turning point in the nation's geopolitical alignment, moving away from its historical role as a Russian ally and aligning itself with alignment with Western security bodies. This decision was driven by the desire for better security assurances, economic incentives, and harmony with democratic ideals, emulating a broader trend of ex-Warsaw Pact nations. To NATO, Bulgaria's entry solidified its southeastern border, which is of strategic value through proximity to the Black Sea area and the Balkans. The role for NATO collective defence of Bulgaria has comprised involvement in various missions and manoeuvres, as well as modernising its armed forces to NATO levels. Modernisation has been a step-by-step process that has often fought budget constraints. The geopolitical location of Bulgaria positions it at the centre of NATO's efforts to project stability within the Black Sea region, particularly in the face of increasing Russian military activity and presence in the region. Bulgaria has been used as a location for NATO exercises and for contributing to maritime security initiatives, signifying its role in regional security cooperation. However, Bulgaria's internal political dynamics have at times presented challenges to its own devotion to NATO. Historical and cultural ties to Russia, as well as domestic political disputes, sometimes generate divergent security policy styles. Moreover, Bulgarian reliance on Russian energy has also created a complex formula, which requires a delicate juggling of national interests and cooperation with NATO. Nevertheless, Bulgaria's commitment to the core tenets of NATO, including collective defence and democratic principles, remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy. The nation's steady efforts to transform its military capabilities and become more interoperable with the NATO allies reflect its willingness to fulfil its responsibilities within the alliance. The alliance remains actively engaged with Bulgaria in a bid to strengthen its capability to contribute to the collective defence, and to be recognised as a reliable ally within the region.

STATE LEVEL ANALYSIS

The Bulgarian foreign policy, in its state form, is normally characterised by geography, history, and membership in major international organisations, including the European Union and NATO. Having transitioned away from communist rule in the early 1990s, Bulgaria has continued to pursue a pro-Western alignment, prioritising integration with Euro-Atlantic bodies. This strategic direction is proof of an aspiration to safeguard its democratic gains and establish its place in the pan-European security system. A key pillar of Bulgarian foreign policy is, thus, maintaining good relations with its EU allies and the US. On the level of the EU, Bulgaria is an active participant in the process of constructing common foreign and security policy, striving to align its national interests with the collective ambitions of the Union. However, its Balkan location presents unique challenges and opportunities. Its foreign policy must endure complex regional interests, including historical tensions, economic disparities, and the persistence of the external powers' influence. On this front, Bulgaria promotes international cooperation and peace in the region, favouring the EU's integration process to accept Western Balkans. Such a policy rests on an awareness of the need for stability in the Balkans in order to secure Bulgaria's security and well-being. Furthermore, relations between Bulgaria and Russia remain a significant aspect of foreign policy. The two nations have, historically, had close cultural and economic ties. However, the reality of Bulgaria's membership in NATO and the EU has necessitated a readjustment of this relationship, which has since evolved into a more multifaceted strategy. While maintaining pragmatic economic relations, Bulgaria has also pursued a more assertive line on issues relating to Russian interference and security concerns. The war in Ukraine has put this trend in stark relief, with Bulgaria participating in EU sanctions and providing assistance to Ukraine, a radical shift from previous more cautious practices. Energy security is also an essential aspect of Bulgarian foreign policy. Traditionally reliant on Russian energy imports, Bulgaria has also sought diversification of sources of energy and greater energy security. This has entailed soliciting projects such as linking pipelines of gas to the neighbouring nations and investing in other forms of energy production. It seeks to reduce dependence on a single source and enhance energy autonomy. Briefly, the foreign policy of Bulgaria at the state level is characterised by its dedication to Euro-Atlantic integration, regional stability in the Balkans, complex relationship with Russia, and for greater energy security. These are Bulgaria's priorities in endeavouring to maintain its position as a secure and successful member of the European community, whatever difficulties its unique geopolitical position may threaten.

CONCLUSION

The modern Bulgarian foreign policy is a ballet of dancing at the edge of the dangerous whirlpools of international affairs but remaining attached to the eternal moorings of national interest. The strategic positioning of the country is marked by a double reality: its deep anchorage within the Euro-Atlantic community as a member of NATO and the European Union, and its continuous imperative of having to contend with the particular challenges and opportunities presented by its geopolitical location within the Balkan Peninsula. This delicate balancing act summarises the essence of Bulgarian foreign policy decision-making. Bulgarian membership in the European Union is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. EU membership has pulled Bulgaria into a system of shared sovereignty, where policy decisions are often the result of intricate negotiations and compromises among members. While this involves coordination on the broader EU agenda on a range of issues, from economic policy and trade to foreign and security matters, Bulgaria actively seeks its own strategic objectives by leveraging its position in the Union. This involves espousing Balkan stability, pushing for EU enlargement policies in the interest of its neighbours, and tapping into EU funds and resources that contribute to its economic development. However, Bulgaria's accession to the EU is not one of passive convergence. Bulgaria exercises its agency and sovereignty and promotes its national interests through the EU mechanism as well. This sometimes leads to nuances in positions on certain EU policy issues, depending on Bulgaria's specific issues or priorities at the time. As a case in point, the Bulgarian response to historical and cultural issues in relations with North Macedonia highlights the complexities of navigating EU integration while strongly rooted national emotions. Bulgarian foreign policy within the EU is therefore an evolving balance between cooperation and assertiveness, showing its desire to be both a committed partner and an active promoter of its own interests. NATO membership is the other central pillar of Bulgaria's foreign policy and security. The collective defence guarantee in Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty provides Bulgaria with a much-needed sense of security in an historically volatile part of the world. Bulgaria's uncompromising engagement in NATO exercises, operations, and programs demonstrates its commitment to transatlantic security and to contributing to the alliance's defence and deterrence posture. Moreover, membership in NATO has served as a catalyst for significant defence reform and military modernisation in Bulgaria, enhancing the professionalism and capabilities of its armed forces. But even within the framework of its steadfast alignment with NATO, Bulgarian foreign policy enjoys some autonomy. Bulgaria's Balkan location requires that it maintain equilibrated relationships with those countries in its immediate neighbourhood, some of which have complex or even strained relationships with other NATO members. The foreign policy of Bulgaria, therefore, seeks to guide these regional dynamics in a way that advances its security as well as cooperation and stability. Besides its EU and NATO commitments, the foreign policy of Bulgaria is also driven by a plethora of domestic determinants. The country's democratic institutions, as much as they are relatively new, provide an environment for public debate and political pluralism, in which the foreign policy agenda. Public opinion, based on previous histories, cultural sympathies, and economic interests, can also drive foreign policy choices by the government. Economic considerations, such as the need to attract foreign capital, secure energy sources, and generate trade, are also significant drivers behind Bulgaria's foreign relations. In the 21st century, Bulgarian foreign policy is faced with a series of evolving challenges and opportunities. New world powers, returning geopolitical competition, and the emergence of non-state actors present a complex and dynamic international setting. In the Balkans, Bulgaria remains challenged by the shadows of the past, seeking to overcome past divisions to build a future of stability and cooperation. The integration process under way among European states is both challenge and opportunity and requires Bulgaria adapt to new policy frameworks and define the changing EU role in world affairs. Several key priorities are established to further propel Bulgaria's foreign policy into the future. Maintaining solid and stable alliances with EU and NATO members will remain of highest concern to Bulgarian security and well-being. Promoting regional stability and cooperation in the Balkans will also take priority, as Bulgaria recognises its own security is closely dependent on the stability of the surrounding countries. Economic development and modernisation will continue to be a major driving force behind Bulgarian foreign policy, as the country works to enhance its competitiveness and improve the living conditions of its citizens. Bulgarian foreign policy is an active and multifaceted process, characterised by the ongoing effort to reconcile the imperatives of global alliances with the assertion of national interests. With the fine art of reconciliation of these cross-pressing demands, Bulgaria seeks to be a helpful and effective actor within the region and the larger world, contributing to security, stability, and prosperity, all the while safeguarding its own sovereignty and advancing its own strategic interests.