Bulgaria set to join eurozone—but fears and division loom large

Bulgaria will adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st eurozone member, aiming to boost its economy and deepen EU integration. The move has sparked division among Bulgarians, with concerns over national identity, cost of living, and uncertainty about the transition. Far-right politicians and Russian-linked disinformation campaigns are fueling opposition, but many still view euro adoption as a positive step.