Bulgaria's 2023 National Security Report Highlights Rising Threats from Russia and China

The 2023 report from Bulgaria's State Agency for National Security (DANS) emphasizes significant threats to the nation's security, highlighting increased hate speech in the Western Balkans, rising dangers from Russia and China, and ongoing issues in cybersecurity, terrorism, and organized crime.

The report points to a worrying trend of intensified hate speech against Bulgaria in the Western Balkans, sometimes accompanied by physical violence against individuals identifying as Bulgarians. This development is particularly concerning given the region's complex history and ongoing tensions.

The report's findings have significant implications for regional and global security, as rising threats from Russia and China can destabilize international relations. If left unchecked, these threats can lead to increased tensions, conflicts, and security breaches, potentially affecting the safety and stability of nations and their citizens.

Rising threats from Russia and China are also a focal point of the report. DANS warns of potential Russian aggression against other countries and Moscow's efforts to undermine NATO unity through hybrid approaches, including the use of proxies. The agency also notes China's growing influence and the associated security risks.

Cybersecurity remains a critical challenge for Bulgaria, with the report highlighting ongoing threats from cyberattacks. Terrorism and organized crime continue to pose significant risks, exacerbated by illegal migration, corruption, and rule of law violations in the region.

In response to these threats, DANS has implemented several measures. The agency has neutralized four Russian and two Belarusian nationals, along with six other foreigners affiliated with foreign special services. Coercive administrative measures have been ordered against 54 individuals who jeopardized Bulgaria's national security, and 393 people have been proposed for addition to the national database of personae non gratae.

DANS has also intensified its counter-terrorism efforts, taking coercive administrative measures against 14 foreign nationals for providing logistical support or being involved in terrorist activities. Additionally, 221 individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist or extremist activities have been entered into the national database of personae non gratae.

Looking ahead, DANS predicts that 2024 will see continued high-intensity threats against Bulgaria's national security, including operations by foreign special services, malicious information campaigns, and cyberattacks. The agency is also preparing to counter unconstitutional acts and foreign influences during the upcoming election period.

The report emphasizes the importance of vigilance and cooperation in addressing these challenges. As Bulgaria addresses these complex security issues, the efforts of DANS will be vital in safeguarding the nation's stability and security.

Key Takeaways

• Bulgaria's security agency DANS reports rising hate speech in the Western Balkans.
• Russia and China pose significant threats to Bulgaria's national security.
• Cybersecurity, terrorism, and organized crime remain major challenges for Bulgaria.
• DANS has taken measures to neutralize foreign nationals and counter terrorism.
• 2024 is expected to see continued high-intensity threats to Bulgaria's national security.