Bulgaria: Taxi drivers plan to protest in central Sofia Dec. 20

Unionized taxi drivers led by the Burgas union plan to gather and protest at Knyaz Alexander Square in Sofia on Dec. 20. The purpose of the action is to denounce the recent increase of mandatory liability insurance for taxi drivers. Go-slow protests are also possible in other parts of Sofia on Dec. 20. It remains unclear when the demonstration will begin; however, participants will likely start protest activity early in the day and continue through the afternoon and evening hours. Organizers expect taxi drivers from other cities are likely to join the demonstration; participants arriving from outside the city will likely prompt congestion on major roads and highways leading to the city center. Participation numbers remain unclear.

Heightened security and transport disruptions are likely in central Sofia during the protest. Limited confrontations between participants and disgruntled drivers cannot be excluded.