On November 26, 2025, thousands of people took to the streets in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, to express their opposition to proposed tax increases outlined in the upcoming year's draft budget. This rally was organized by a political coalition known as We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria, and it attracted around 20,000 participants demonstrating against financial decisions they believe will negatively impact both individuals and businesses throughout the country. The draft budget, which is on the verge of being approved by parliament, has sparked considerable unrest due to its significant increase in government spending, anticipated to reach almost 46% of the nation's GDP. The financial strategy includes a rise in social security contributions for workers, as well as a doubling of the dividend tax paid by businesses. Protesters voiced strong concerns that these measures would exacerbate the economic burden on the population, particularly as the country prepares for its introduction to the eurozone at the beginning of the coming year. Participants in the protest formed a human chain around the parliament building in an attempt to block the cars of government deputies, highlighting their dissatisfaction with the draft budget's passage. Tensions escalated as some demonstrators resorted to throwing bottles and firecrackers at police officers, leading to three injuries among law enforcement officials. The police were forced to step in to prevent violence, indicating the heated atmosphere surrounding the event. Despite the widespread dissent and warnings from economists regarding the significant risks posed by the proposed budget, it is expected to pass due to the coalition government holding a commanding majority in parliament. This situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the government in managing public sentiment while also addressing fiscal policies that aim to increase funding through business and worker taxes, as well as public debt, underscoring a complex intersection between economic policies and societal impact.