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<p>In 2018, we voluntarily launched the FB group ‘You Are Not Alone - Together Against Violence’, which today supports over 10,600 members experiencing violence. Their constant need for help and advice is the reason we established our organization with the aim of offering systematic help to people experiencing violence, and to educate the entire Bulgarian society about the problem of violence.</p><p>Since 2022, the Wake Up Foundation has been moderating the group, providing daily advice and guidance to members.</p><p>If you are affected by domestic violence, know someone who needs support, or want to share your concerns, join the group to feel the power of mutual assistance.<br>&nbsp;</p>

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#YouAreNotAlone FB Group

<hr><p>What is a crisis center for victims of domestic violence?</p><p>A conversation with the P.U.L.S. Foundation about their crisis center. We explain everything related to the service that is available to everyone. The steps to receive help and support in a crisis center.</p><p>The seminar is held with the support of In&amp;Out.</p><hr><figure class="table" style="width:97.22%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:92.11%;"><col style="width:7.89%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=z2OCM1h-NWU}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p>We present the series of free psychological and legal seminars led by psychologists and lawyers. They are a roadmap with practical advice and useful information for people affected by domestic violence.</p><figure class="image image_resized image-style-align-left" style="width:21.28%;"><img src="/uploads/BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png" alt="BFFW-FullLogo-Prink.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 245w,/uploads/small_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 500w,/uploads/medium_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 750w,/uploads/large_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This project is implemented with the financial support of the Bulgarian Fund for Women. The project does not reflect the opinion of the BFW and the BFW is not responsible for it.</p><hr><p>Psychological seminars with psychotherapist Boryana Grigorova, author of the book "The Web of Psychological Abuse"</p><hr><p>Toxic Relationships</p><figure class="table" style="width:99.05%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:57.99%;"><col style="width:42.01%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=DN3YNMglub4}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Why is it difficult for us to end an abusive relationship?</p><figure class="table" style="width:99.05%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:57.99%;"><col style="width:42.01%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=Bbv_ESh5aok}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Childhood is the foundation of everything</p><figure class="table" style="width:98.86%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:57.87%;"><col style="width:42.13%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=9BaJ6UUEdgM}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Where is my focus?</p><figure class="table" style="width:98.85%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:58.22%;"><col style="width:41.78%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=Ly-x1tMmZkg}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Psychological abuse kills</p><figure class="table" style="width:98.85%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:58.22%;"><col style="width:41.78%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=QyXBacNJpuE}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Children as witnesses and victims of domestic violence</p><figure class="table" style="width:98.85%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:58.22%;"><col style="width:41.78%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=htyk4QSqdR0}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p>Legal seminars led by practicing experts in the field of domestic violence. So that we know our rights and receive more effective protection.</p><hr><p>Domestic Violence and Bulgarian Laws. With Lawyer Emil Stankov</p><figure class="table" style="width:97.74%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:59.18%;"><col style="width:40.82%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=Bst-o83M4Q8}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Domestic violence. Competent authorities to contact. With &nbsp;Lawyer Emil Stankov</p><figure class="table" style="width:96.87%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:59.57%;"><col style="width:40.43%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=4UtITUls9UI}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>What the police can and cannot do. With Dr. Blagorodna Makeva.</p><figure class="table" style="width:95.78%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:60.39%;"><col style="width:39.61%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=7Z4ioQxPebA}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Changes in the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence. Get to know your rights. Part One. With Lawyer Milena Kadieva</p><figure class="table" style="width:96.87%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:59.57%;"><col style="width:40.43%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=boEXayueDEo}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Changes in the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence. Get to know your rights. Part Two. With Lawyer Milena Kadieva</p><figure class="table" style="width:96.87%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:59.57%;"><col style="width:40.43%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>{{video src=ShZiGU-trzs}}</td><td>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

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#YouAreNotAlone Seminars

<p>Our first-of-its-kind podcast series on the topic of domestic violence presents the problem in Bulgaria in 360 degrees. In each episode, we introduce you to a new guest whose story carries an important message and is a source of valuable information.</p><p><img class="image_resized" style="width:20.28%;" src="/uploads/BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png" alt="BFFW-FullLogo-Prink.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 245w,/uploads/small_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 500w,/uploads/medium_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 750w,/uploads/large_BFFW_Full_Logo_Prink_5bb3de413a.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></p><p>This project is implemented with the financial support of the Bulgarian Fund for Women. The project does not reflect the opinion of the BFW and the BFW bears no responsibility for it.</p><p>{{video src="gg_X_7ug-cQ" list=PLAYtGWnSsiCVqiBh7zgd5fUOMr2kkF9zB}}</p><p><span style="color:#f44336;"><strong>Listen to the podcasts on Spotify</strong></span></p><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2fh3p1/a-aaulrnl" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2fltek/a-aav31mm" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2flu1o/a-aav32tt" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2flu8g/a-aav33d2" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2flveb/a-aav368k" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div class="raw-html-embed"><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-wake-up-foundation4/embed/episodes/ep-e2flvut/a-aav37bf" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

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#YouAreNotAlone Podcasts

<p>PROTECTED is a guide with a set of documents for reporting domestic violence to institutions.<br>It was prepared under the project "Help and Information for People Experiencing Domestic Violence and Gender-Based Violence", funded by the Bulgarian Fund for Women.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/uploads/ZA_Shh_ITENI_Narchnik_E_Book_60fb605c87.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color:#e53935;"><strong>Download PROTECTED</strong></span></a></p><p>The author is Dr. Blagorodna Makeva - an independent human rights consultant, lecturer, researcher and author of publications in the field of prevention and protection from domestic violence, human trafficking, working with children - refugees and migrants, etc.</p><p>In PROTECTED you will find all the necessary sample documents for reporting to institutions, safety plans, as well as what the legislation in Bulgaria provides for protection against domestic violence.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/uploads/PLAN_za_Bezopasnost_f1c058edc2.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color:#e53935;"><strong>Download Safety Plans</strong></span></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Victims of domestic violence often do not know what the options for protection are, as well as what they can ask from institutions. The goal of PROTECTED is to benefit all victims of domestic violence on their way to receiving protection and support.</p><p>The handbook was made possible thanks to the financial support of the Bulgarian Fund for Women. It does not reflect the opinion of the BFW and the BFW is not responsible for its content.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><img class="image_resized" style="width:17.68%;" src="/uploads/large_bfw_bb666c15e9_d2f4447b21.png" alt="large_bfw_bb666c15e9.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_large_bfw_bb666c15e9_d2f4447b21.png 245w, /uploads/small_large_bfw_bb666c15e9_d2f4447b21.png 500w, /uploads/medium_large_bfw_bb666c15e9_d2f4447b21.png 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750"></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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PROTECTED

<p>In March 2018, immediately after the failed ratification of the Istanbul Convention, Girls from the City, together with the organizations Alliance for Protection from Gender-Based Violence, Animus Association Foundation, P.U.L.S. Foundation and Bulgarian Fund for Women organized the campaign “You are not alone - together against violence”. It formulated 5 demands to the Bulgarian state in connection with the lack of will to combat domestic violence and succeeded, for the first time in Bulgaria, in uniting the civil sector against domestic violence - over 30 non-governmental organizations stood behind its goals. In addition to the NGO sector, the campaign united several independent women's and lifestyle media, such as Maiko Mila, Mama Ninja, Gracia magazine, Ploshtad Slaveykov, etc.&nbsp;</p><p>Over time, the campaign focused on developing a community of victims of violence through the FB group “You are not alone - together against violence”, which organically gathered over 9,000 members over the years and became the main channel for communication of the entire non-governmental sector with the main target group - victims of violence. From this group also started the “You are not alone” Clubs, which won the BHC “Person of the Year” award in the same year. The group gave voice and an opportunity for expression to hundreds of people who asked their questions and sought help and support.<br>&nbsp;</p>

You are not alone – Together against violence. Our story.

<p>One of our main operational goals is to advocate on behalf of people affected by domestic violence in Bulgaria as well as to uphold human rights.</p><p><br><img class="image_resized" style="width:100%;" src="/uploads/425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n_6fc30c3f87.jpg" alt="425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n_6fc30c3f87.jpg 219w,/uploads/small_425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n_6fc30c3f87.jpg 500w,/uploads/medium_425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n_6fc30c3f87.jpg 750w,/uploads/large_425344386_348606868063823_966251792774926553_n_6fc30c3f87.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></p><p>For this reason, we formed the NGO Coalition "Together Against Violence", which unites 35+ civil society organizations working for effective policies and sustainable financing in the fight against domestic violence (DV).</p><p>It is recognized as a leading advocacy force that not only monitors institutional processes, but also actively influences legislation, budgets and coordination of state policy.</p><p>The coalition has a flexible structure, which allows different organizations as well as citizens to stand behind our advocacy actions. We work by uniting and coordinating the civil sector and together we hold the state accountable. We strongly believe in the principle of cooperation, which is why our campaigns are based on constructive dialogue with responsible institutions, experts, politicians and receive wide media coverage. Our goal is clear - to achieve real changes in the lives of citizens affected by violence in Bulgaria.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:24.96%;"><img src="/uploads/The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_01_b561abc154.png" alt="The-WakeUp-Foundation_Elements_01.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_01_b561abc154.png 206w, /uploads/small_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_01_b561abc154.png 500w, /uploads/medium_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_01_b561abc154.png 750w, /uploads/large_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_01_b561abc154.png 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>📌 <strong>We achieved the amendments to the Domestic Violence Act</strong></p><p>In March 2023, the Wake Up Foundation initiated the creation of the coalition, uniting 35 civil society organizations from across the country. At the first conference, we presented future MPs, ministers, and politicians with a request for urgent amendments to the Domestic Violence Act (DVA), calling for the issue to become a working priority for the new parliament.</p><p>The subsequent strategic advocacy, large-scale media campaign, and direct work with politicians – including the preparation and submission of supporting points for plenary debates – led to the coalition’s first major success:</p><p>In August 2023, the amendments to the DVA were promulgated. Thus, we achieved a renewed and more progressive law that had been decades overdue. The Wake Up Foundation and the work of the Together Against Violence coalition were honored with the prestigious “Person of the Year 2023” award from the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee. We also received the “Relentlessness” award from TimeHeroes – recognition for our constant and determined work for the rights of victims of domestic violence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25.68%;"><img src="/uploads/The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_02_4d19baf027.png" alt="The-WakeUp-Foundation_Elements_02.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_02_4d19baf027.png 206w,/uploads/small_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_02_4d19baf027.png 500w,/uploads/medium_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_02_4d19baf027.png 750w,/uploads/large_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_02_4d19baf027.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>📌<strong>Other achievements</strong></p><ul><li>National sociological survey "Hear my voice". We conducted the first-of-its-kind survey among victims of domestic violence, which revealed their experiences and attitudes towards Bulgarian institutions on their path to seeking protection. On June 12, 2025, at a high-level conference, the results were presented to ministers, institutions and the media. The data is used in parliamentary working groups, discussions and legislative revisions, as well as for advocacy.</li><li>Successful campaign for budget transparency - requiring an account of the missing 450,000 leva for combating domestic violence in 2024.</li><li>Active participation in working groups of the Ministry of Justice for the transposition of the EU Directive 2024/1385 on combating domestic violence.</li><li>Influence on the draft law on amendments to the Family Code through coordinated opinions from NGOs and citizens - achieved promise for revisions tailored to the context of domestic violence and the best interests of the child.</li><li>Participation in the National Council for Prevention and Protection from Domestic Violence – thanks to our advocacy, the procedure for the inclusion of four NGOs was reopened.</li><li>We hold monthly coalition meetings and build sustainable internal coordination.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><p>📌<strong>Advocacy and work with institutions</strong><br>The coalition has built trust and ongoing dialogue with key institutions:</p><ul><li>Council of Ministers</li><li>Ministry of Justice</li><li>National Assembly (Labor and Social Policy Committee, Demographic Affairs Committee and Legal Committee)</li><li>Deputy Prime Minister and line advisors</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25.89%;"><img src="/uploads/The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_03_6e07cc5d25.png" alt="The-WakeUp-Foundation_Elements_03.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_03_6e07cc5d25.png 206w,/uploads/small_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_03_6e07cc5d25.png 500w,/uploads/medium_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_03_6e07cc5d25.png 750w,/uploads/large_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_03_6e07cc5d25.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>📌<strong>Media and public campaigns</strong></p><ul><li>Wide coverage of the achievement of the amendments to the Protection from Domestic Violence Act. Coverage of the topic of the “missing 450,000 BGN” to combat domestic violence for 2024&nbsp;</li><li>Mass civil mobilization against the changes to the Family Code, which do not take into account the context of domestic violence and the best interests of the child</li><li>Raising awareness in the FB group “You are not alone”, which is moderated by us with over 10,500 members, through advocacy and educational campaigns.</li><li>National coverage of the “Hear my voice” survey<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:25.13%;"><img src="/uploads/The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_04_8c5ff061aa.png" alt="The-WakeUp-Foundation_Elements_04.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_04_8c5ff061aa.png 206w,/uploads/small_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_04_8c5ff061aa.png 500w,/uploads/medium_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_04_8c5ff061aa.png 750w,/uploads/large_The_Wake_Up_Foundation_Elements_04_8c5ff061aa.png 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px"></figure><p><br>📌 <strong>Plans and priorities for 2026</strong></p><ul><li>Adoption and actual implementation of the Coordination Mechanism</li><li>Advocacy for improved competition and sustainable financing of services for protection and prevention of domestic violence</li><li>Expanding the coalition and partnerships with other networks</li><li>New public campaigns and media initiatives for visibility of the problem</li><li>Work on transposition of the EU Directive 2024/1385 on combating domestic violence<br>&nbsp;</li></ul>

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NGO Coalition "Together Against Violence"

<p>In 2018, we initiated a campaign to restore the memory of the prominent Bulgarian women who played a huge role in the construction of Bulgarian society after the Liberation. The campaign aimed to draw the attention of our modern society to the values ​​of democracy, emancipation, enlightenment and Europeanization of our country, defended by a number of prominent Bulgarian women, insufficiently known in the contemporary memory of Bulgaria. Archival materials were digitized and new research was conducted on significant women in the history of Bulgaria, which were published in a special series on the Girls from the City website. Specially created exhibition panels presented 15 prominent women of the awakening movement within the framework of the Mish Mash Fest June 2019. In 2022, we realized the second edition of the exhibition "The Awakening Women", with the support of the Sofia Municipality, as well as special digital boards at Sofia Airport.<br>&nbsp;</p>

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The Awakening Women of Bulgaria

<p>It takes a lot of strength to talk about your experiences, especially because women are often rejected when they share them.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Step One</strong></span></p><p>Recognize that even though she is in a scary and difficult situation, she is taking an important and courageous step forward by reaching out to you.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Listen</strong></span></p><p>It can be a real challenge for friends and family to support someone who is experiencing domestic violence, but the most important thing you can do is provide emotional support. Listen to them and believe them. Allow them to express their feelings to you and give them time and space. Keep in mind that domestic violence is about one person trying to control another - the perpetrator will likely have taken a lot of control away from them, so don't do the same. Instead of taking the situation out of their hands or making decisions for them, let them know that there is support for them if and when they decide to reach out. They may decide that it is not the right time to get support or leave. This is normal, it is important not to pressure them or judge them for making this decision. Let them set their own boundaries about what they feel is safe and what is not. Remember that they are the expert in their own experiences.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Report</strong></span></p><p>However, if you have a reason to believe that someone is in immediate danger, then you can call the police or encourage the victim to call the police if they are able to do so. Let them know that they are not alone and refer them to support services. Support workers can help them cope with the abuse and tell them about the options available to them. They may have been physically abused as well as emotionally abused. If they share this information with you, you can offer to go with them to their GP or hospital. If she feels comfortable doing so, you can help her report the assault(s) to the police. The abuser may have told her that she deserved the abuse. Reassure her that this is not true, no one deserves to be threatened or hurt. There is no excuse for the abuser’s behavior, the abuser is solely responsible for their actions.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Don’t judge. Use supportive language</strong></span></p><p>It can be difficult to hear someone talk about what they are going through, but it is important not to turn your feelings into judgmental words. Judgmental language about domestic violence can reinforce dangerous stereotypes. It can make it harder for women to understand the abuse they are experiencing, to come to terms with it, and to seek professional support. Instead of saying, “If I were you, I would leave,” try to show that you understand the many obstacles she is facing, from financial to emotional, by saying, “I understand there are obstacles to leaving.” Leaving is a huge decision that can lead to further abuse, and it is important that she makes her decision when she feels ready. It is also important to be an empowering voice and not blame her for the abuse. Instead of “What did you do to provoke him?” try “You don’t deserve this, no matter what” or instead of “That’s not like him,” try “Your feelings are valid and I believe you.”<br>When you are supporting someone, your words are powerful. It is extremely important that survivors get the right response when they reach out to you.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Take care of yourself</strong></span></p><p>Remember to take care of yourself while supporting someone through a difficult and emotional time. Don’t put yourself in dangerous situations. You should not offer to talk to the abuser or put yourself in situations where the abuser might perceive you as a threat. If the abuser knows that your friend or family member is seeking help, or if you confront them about the abuse, it may lead to an escalation of the abuse.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

How to support someone affected by domestic violence

<p>We need to stop blaming victims for staying and start supporting them to empower them to leave. Once we understand the many barriers that prevent a person from leaving an abusive relationship – psychological, emotional, financial, physical or cyber threats – we can start supporting and empowering them to make the best decision. At the same time, we hold only the abuser accountable for their behavior. Here are some of the reasons that prevent women from leaving:</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Danger and fear</strong></span></p><p><br>One of the biggest reasons women don’t leave is that it can be extremely dangerous. The fear that women experience is very real – the likelihood of violence following a breakup increases significantly.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Isolation</strong></span></p><p><br>Domestic violence often relies on isolating the victim. The perpetrator works to weaken her ties with family and friends, making it extremely difficult to seek support. Perpetrators often try to reduce the woman’s contact with the outside world to prevent her from realising that their behaviour is abusive and wrong. Isolation leads to women becoming extremely dependent on their controlling partner.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Shame, embarrassment or denial</strong></span></p><p><br>Perpetrators are often respected or liked in their communities because they are charming and manipulative. This prevents people from recognising the abuse and further isolates the woman. The perpetrator often belittles, denies or blames the victim for the abuse. Victims may feel ashamed or make excuses to themselves and others to cover up the abuse.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Trauma and low self-esteem</strong></span></p><p><br>Imagine being told every day that you are worthless and the impact this has on your self-esteem. Victims have very limited freedom to make decisions about abuse, are often traumatised, regularly told “you couldn’t do it on your own, you need me”. Fear is constant and they live in a world of daily terror.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Practical reasons</strong></span></p><p><br>Abusers often control every aspect of their victim’s life, making it impossible to work or be financially independent. By controlling access to money, women are left unable to support themselves and their children. They may fear that their children will be taken away.</p><p><span style="color:#FF4A4A;"><strong>Support is not available when they need it</strong></span></p><p><br>Asking for help is not easy. A lack of understanding of domestic violence often prevents professionals from knowing what to do, how to talk about it, or where to refer women who disclose abuse.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Why doesn't she just leave?

<p><span style="color:#FA4A4A;"><strong>What are the signs?</strong></span></p><p><img class="image_resized" style="width:28.06%;" src="/uploads/pr1_1463e16a3f.png" alt="pr1.png" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_pr1_1463e16a3f.png 245w," sizes="100vw" width="245px"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If you are changing your behavior because you are afraid of your partner’s reaction, it may be abuse. Many women experience domestic violence without being physically harmed.</p><p>Remember: non-physical forms of abuse can be just as destructive and damaging as physical abuse.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="color:#FA4A4A;"><strong>Types of domestic violence</strong></span></p><ul><li>Psychological/emotional abuse: Includes insults, threats, and manipulation, blaming, or belittling.</li><li>Economic abuse: Controlling your access to money or resources. Your partner may take your paycheck, stop you from working, or put you in debt without your knowledge or consent.</li><li>Sexual abuse: Doesn’t have to be physical. Your partner may manipulate, deceive, or force you to do things you don’t want to do.</li><li>Coercive control: When an abuser uses a pattern of behavior over time to exert power and control.</li><li>Physical abuse: Most often hits, but he may restrain you or throw objects at you. He may pinch or push you and claim it is a "joke".</li><li>Cyber: He may send abusive messages, demand access to your devices, track you with spyware or share your photos online.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><span style="color:#FA4A4A;"><strong>Statistics</strong></span></p><p>There are no official statistics on domestic violence cases in Bulgaria.</p><ul><li>Every third woman has experienced some form of violence (EU data)</li><li>Since the beginning of the year, 5 women have been killed by men in Bulgaria</li><li>In 2024, at least 20 women were killed by their current or former partners or other close relatives. Source: Media monitoring of cases of murders of women: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://spasena.org/bg/media_monitoring">http://spasena.org/bg/media_monitoring</a></li><li>According to the latest data from the Ministry of Interior, there has been an increase in the number of reports of domestic violence registered and recorded on the SES 112. Over 53,000 reports of violence were filed in 2024.</li><li>Registered crimes mean crimes within the meaning of the Criminal Code in the context of domestic violence, i.e. there was a minor or serious bodily injury inflicted at home. In 2022, these cases were 873 cases, in 2024 they were 2555, which is almost three times more. The same is true of the bodily injuries that were inflicted. From 280 in 2022 to 1812 in 2024 - here there is an almost six-fold increase. (data from the Society and Security Foundation)</li><li>After the elimination of the requirement for consistency in the definition in Art. 93, item 31 of the Criminal Code, it was found that newly initiated pre-trial proceedings (TP) for this category of crimes in 2024 increased by ≈128% compared to 2023. (data from the Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Bulgaria)</li><li>11.9% of women aged 18-74 have experienced physical and/or sexual violence ("at least one of the two types of violence") during their adult lives (NSI)</li><li>20.5% of women aged 18 - 74 in the country who currently have or have ever had a partner have experienced one or more cases of intimate partner violence (NSI)</li><li>Young women (aged 18 to 29) are at the greatest risk of intimate partner violence compared to women of other age groups. Every third woman aged 18 - 29 years old has been abused by a current or former partner - 36.3% (NSI).</li><li>At least 1 in 3 children in Bulgaria are subjected to violence (30.9%) according to a UNICEF study.&nbsp;</li><li>Violence against women costs our country over 6.8 billion euros each year, and in total for the European Union this figure is 366 billion annually.&nbsp;</li><li>The difference in pay between men and women (the so-called Gender Pay Gap). In Bulgaria, men receive 12.2% higher pay than women.&nbsp;</li><li>The Law on Amendments and Supplements to the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence was promulgated on 1.08.2023</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><img class="image_resized" style="width:23.32%;" src="/uploads/heart_ed5812f9ec.jpg" alt="heart.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_heart_ed5812f9ec.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="245px"></p><p><span style="color:#FA4A4A;"><strong>20 signs that your partner is prone to violence</strong></span></p><hr><figure class="table" style="width:98.04%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:14.29%;"><col style="width:85.71%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">1</td><td>They get angry easily and often, even by things that most people don't pay attention to</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">2</td><td>They are the center of attention most of the time, but feel threatened by other people whom they perceive as competitors</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">3</td><td>They often express themselves arrogantly and with a sense of superiority, and when provoked, can become cruel</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">4</td><td>Pathologically jealous</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">5</td><td>Accept themselves as the last resort, the ultimate authority</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">6</td><td>Incapable of sympathy and empathy for the emotions of others</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">7</td><td>Lie, manipulate, project guilt and responsibility onto everyone but themselves</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">8</td><td>Often switch between adoration and humiliation with ease</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">9</td><td>Repeat the same patterns of behavior, do not learn from their mistakes</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">10</td><td>Always manage to find an excuse for everything they do to you, no matter how cruel it is</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">11</td><td>Prone to passive or open aggression</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">12</td><td>They punish you for your transgressions, usually disproportionate to your "misdeeds"</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">13</td><td>Threaten to leave you, but do not allow you to leave them</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">14</td><td>Demean you, make you feel unworthy</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">15</td><td>Take over the role of victim, and turn you into an aggressor</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">16</td><td>Believe that initially everything in your life together is due to them, and after a possible separation, believe that everything together belongs to them by right</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">17</td><td>Believe that you are to blame for the end of the relationship</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">18</td><td>May try to keep you or continue with contacts after the end of the relationship in order to harass you. May also try to manipulate your new partner</td></tr><tr><td style="vertical-align:top;">19</td><td>They easily replace you with a new partner and move on relatively easily with their life</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>Instill feelings of guilt and inferiority</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>{{accordion}}&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

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About Domestic Violence

<p>Violence does not discriminate and can affect anyone regardless of gender or age. We are here to support you and tell you that you are not alone in what you are going through. Seeking help is the first and most important step. Children, even if they are witnesses of violence, are also victims of violence. Do it now!</p><p>● 112 Emergency Hotline</p><p>● 0800 1 8676 Free 24-hour hotline for people who have suffered from violence</p><p>● 0800 11 977 24-hour professional help line of the “Alliance for Protection from Gender-Based Violence”</p><p>● 0800 20 202 Kabinet.bg: Emergency psychotherapeutic help and emotional support</p><p>● 116 111 National Children’s Hotline or by email at SACP@sacp.government.bg. Indicate if you wish to remain anonymous</p><p>● 0700 18 250 National Legal Aid Hotline</p><p>● Important! If you have not received assistance from the police, you can report it to: mvr@mvr.bg. Indicate which police department of the Ministry of Interior, what day, what time and the names of the police officers, if you know. Also describe the case.<br>&nbsp;</p><figure class="table" style="width:80%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:49.08%;"><col style="width:1.84%;"><col style="width:49.08%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="background-color:hsl(0, 75%, 60%);text-align:center;"><span style="background-color:hsl(0,75%,60%);color:#fafafa;font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:20px;">▼</span></td><td>&nbsp;</td><td style="background-color:hsl(0, 75%, 60%);text-align:center;"><span style="background-color:hsl(0,75%,60%);color:#fafafa;font-family:Roboto, sans-serif;font-size:20px;">▼</span></td></tr><tr><td style="background-color:#FF4A4A;height:200px;padding:0.1rem;text-align:center;"><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/page/freelegalaid"><span style="color:#fafafa;"><strong>БЕЗПЛАТНА ПРАВНА ПОМОЩ</strong></span></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></td><td style="height:60px;padding:1rem;">&nbsp;</td><td style="background-color:#FF4A4A;height:200px;text-align:center;"><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="/page/shelters"><span style="color:#fafafa;"><strong>КРИЗИСНИ ЦЕНТРОВЕ</strong></span></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>