The Muslim presence in Bulgaria represents a historic and structural component of the country’s society, deeply rooted in its cultural fabric and fully part of its European path. Bulgarian Muslims, belonging to different traditions and communities, have long contributed to the social, economic and cultural life of the country, maintaining a strong commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The Bulgarian Muslim community is characterized by its indigenous nature and a long-standing tradition of coexistence with other religious denominations. Islamic religious institutions operate within a framework recognized by the State, fostering interreligious dialogue and promoting a European Islam that is firmly anchored in the local context, respectful of the law and democratic principles.
Within the European Union context, Muslims in Bulgaria face challenges common to other religious minorities, including social inclusion, the fight against discrimination and the need for a fair public representation of Islam. At the same time, they play a positive role as a cultural bridge between South-Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean area and the wider world, contributing to stability and social cohesion.
The European Muslims League acknowledges the Bulgarian Muslim community as a meaningful example of balance between religious identity and European citizenship, emphasizing the importance of education, dialogue and civic participation as essential tools to strengthen social peace and prevent any form of extremism or marginalization.
In this context, EML President Alfredo Maiolese stated: “The Muslim community in Bulgaria shows how European Islam can be an active and responsible part of society, contributing to stability, interreligious dialogue and the construction of a Europe based on respect, human dignity and peaceful coexistence.”
The European Muslims League will continue to highlight and support Muslim communities across European countries, promoting a vision of Islam as a resource for social cohesion, intercultural dialogue and peace, in full respect of national identities and shared European values.
The Muslim Community in Bulgaria: Identity, Coexistence and European Citizenship
