Interior Minister: Bulgaria Will Not Become a Migrant Buffer After Schengen Accession

Bulgaria’s accession to the Schengen area by land will not result in the country becoming a migrant buffer, Acting Interior Minister Atanas Ilkov stated during a briefing following the EU Council’s final decision. Ilkov described the event as a historic achievement for Bulgaria, marking December 12, 2024, as a significant date for Bulgarian citizens, businesses, and institutions. The decision acknowledges Bulgaria’s sustained efforts in reducing migrant pressure, with the country reporting a 70% decrease in such activity and a 46% reduction in detainees compared to 2023.

...