50th SESSION OF THE UPR WORKING GROUP
Statement Norway
on the on the human rights situation in Bulgaria
delivered by Ms Marita SØRHEIM-RENSVIK Minister, Deputy Permanent Representative.
Check against delivery
6 November 2025
President,
Norway welcomes Bulgaria’s progress in reducing overcrowding and improving material conditions in prisons but remains concerned about the weak judicial independence and insufficient protection and human rights for the Roma and LGBT+ persons.
Norway recommends that Bulgaria:
- Implement legislative measures to ensure judicial independence and prevent political interference.
- Ratify the Istanbul Convention and strengthen efforts to combat domestic violence.
- Prevent discrimination against LGBT+- persons and repeal restrictions on inclusive education. Strengthen protection against discrimination and ensure proportionality in removal orders affecting members of the Roma community.
- Protect independent media from political and economic interference and ensure transparent allocation of public funding
- [Ensure access to fair asylum procedures.]
Thank you.