Bulgarians Have Freedom To Vote, But Lack The Free Press Essential To Make Informed Choices At The Polls May 12

The U.S. today gave Bulgaria a passing grade on the mechanics of its electoral process, while simultaneously supporting the widely-held view that Bulgarian media do not honestly report news that is essential for voters to make informed decisions in their own best interests.

"Both print and electronic media were criticized domestically and internationally for lack of ownership and financial transparency as well as for susceptibility to economic and political influence," says the "Bulgaria 2012 Human Rights Report" from the U.S. Department of State.

The contradictory U.S. assessment-- an attempt to be both candid and diplomatic-- comes exactly three weeks before Bulgarians vote to replace the government that resigned Feb. 28 after street demonstrations.

The U.S. report states, "Observers characterized the 2011 presidential elections as reflecting 'a respect for fundamental rights and freedoms' but also noted reports of vote buying and organizational weaknesses...." It continues (emphasis added):

The marginalization of the Romani minority remained the country’s most pressing human rights problem. However, the deterioration of the media environment and increase in media self-censorship due to corporate and political pressure were also problematic. Corruption continued to be a drag on the government’s capabilities and undermined public confidence in the judiciary and other state institutions.

The American government's assessment of Bulgaria may seem stark when read in black and white. However, Bulgaria faces frequent public scolding from various European Union officials. Occasionally foreign diplomats stationed in Sofia are quoted for the record in local media vociferously criticizing imminent or past decisions by their host government. 

President Teddy Roosevelt used the proverb, "Speak softly and carry a big stick." With no "big stick" at hand in today's geopolitical environment, foreign governments are reduced to speaking quite loudly to Bulgaria.

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