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bulgaria
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150 total results foundAuthor: Bezlov, Tihomir Title: Heroin Users in Bulgaria One Year After Outlawing the Dose for "Personal Use": Law Changes and New Risks Summary: The report reveals the place of heroin use in Bulgaria and its development since the amendment to the Penal Code repealing Paragraph 3 of Art 354a and its provision. The revision gained public popularity as „the single dose law”. It renders criminal every drug substance possession, regardless of the type or quantity of the substance, or whether the individual in possession of the dose is dependent or not. Under the new regulation, the drug wholesalers, the small drug dealers, and those just using, not trading in drugs, are treated equally harshly. The change was carried out, despite keen objections on the part of experts and civil society organizations that it might lead to severe and unpredictable consequences. The research, however, revealed that the ban on the „single dose”, and its negative implications, are only part of a larger nationwide problem caused not only by the legislative framework, but also by the inadequate institutional response. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Initiative for Health Foundation and the Open Society Institute Sofia, 2005. 24p. Source: Internet Resource: http://www.csd.bg/fileSrc.php?id=1939 Year: 2005 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Drug Abuse and Crime Shelf Number: 119922 |
Author: Shentov, Ognian Title: Crime Trends in Bulgaria: 2000 - 2010 Summary: The present study examines crime trends in Bulgaria between 2000 and 2010 based on a comparison between surveys of crime victims (National Crime Survey) and police statistics. In addition to overall crime trends data, the report presents data on ten different categories of crime, as well as regional specifics of crime in Bulgaria. Criminal justice and socio economic data is also analysed in an attempt to explain the observed trends in crime. Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2011. 63p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 26, 2011 at: www.csd.bg/fileSrc.php?id=20543 Year: 2011 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Crime Statistics (Bulgaria) Shelf Number: 122449 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Practices and Forms of Cooperation between Customs and Border Guards in the European Union Summary: The economic crisis and the increased threats from terrorism, organised crime and illegal migration have brought to light the issue of efficient and effective management of the external borders of the European Union. For Bulgaria it has become even more important with regard to its upcoming accession to the Schengen area. Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2011. 11p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 30: Accessed August 26, 2011 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=15647 Year: 2011 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Border Patrol Shelf Number: 122562 |
Author: The Advocates for Human Rights Title: Implementation of the Bulgarian Law on Protection against Domestic Violence Summary: In the two years since the entry into force of the Law on Protection against Domestic Violence (LPADV), its overall implementation has been positive. While challenges remain for all sectors and legislative amendments are needed, the response to domestic violence since the law passed in Bulgaria is encouraging. Bulgaria’s non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been instrumental in this progress through their initiatives in training, victim support, and coordination among government sectors. While the adoption of the LPADV is a significant step toward combating domestic violence, its effective implementation is essential for the realization of victim safety and accountability for offenders in Bulgaria. Details: Minneapolis, MN: The Advocates for Human Rights, 2008. 71p. Source: Women's Human Rights Report Series, Bulgaria: Internet Resource: Accessed February 5, 2012 at http://www.theadvocatesforhumanrights.org/uploads/final_report_2.pdf Year: 2008 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Domestic Violence (Bulgaria) Shelf Number: 123980 |
Author: Yordanova, Maria Title: Penitentiary Policy and System in the Republic of Bulgaria Summary: The analysis of the legal framework of the prison system, of the state and specific problems of that system, as well as the empirical studies conducted, demonstrate the need of further development of the penitentiary reform as part of the reform of penal legislation and of criminal justice. This implies continued alignment of national legislation with European standards, accompanied by comprehensive practical modernization and humanization of the penitentiary system. The recommendations outline some important guidelines in this respect. In principle, such reforms require considerable costs which, however, can be optimized by introducing a balanced complex of measures, including abolition of the penal sanction of imprisonment for less serious offences and expanding the scope of application of non-custodial measures, shortening the term of custodial sentences, a broader reasoned application of the mechanisms of suspended sentencing, release on parole etc. On the other hand, the costs of “investments” in the reform must match the “benefits” they are supposed to generate. The most important indicators of the benefits of the reforms and of the effectiveness of the penitentiary system are reduction of crime at large and of recidivism in particular, successful reintegration of prisoners after service of the sentence, as well as enhancement of public security. Special attention must be paid to intervention for drug-using or drug-dependent prisoners. Drug distribution and drug use are a serious problem not only for criminal justice and the penitentiary system but a serious social problem in its own right. There is a pressing need of an integral and consistent State policy in this area, including, among other things, a complex of measures vis-`а-vis drugdependent prisoners, applicable both while such persons serve their sentence and after their release. Inspections, monitoring and independent civic oversight, as well as the publicity of their results, are and will continue to be an important guarantee of control over the further progress of the penitentiary reform and over the all-round functioning of the penitentiary system. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2011. 108p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 27, 2012 at: http://www.csd.bg/fileSrc.php?id=20419 Year: 2011 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Correctional Administration Shelf Number: 124292 |
Author: Galev, Todor Title: Crime and Punishment: Studying Justice System for Shaping Criminal Policy Summary: The current publication analyses the findings of the survey on public trust in Bulgarian police and courts, including personal assessments about the level of corruption in these institutions and the subjective perceptions of fear of crime. Two main factors are moulding the public trust: the state institutions’ effectiveness, their procedural justice and their distributive fairness towards citizens, as well as institutions’ legitimacy, the legality of their actions and the shared moral principles, which build up the obligation to respect the rules and the decisions of these institutions. The publication suggests that Bulgaria should introduce a system of indicators for assessing the public trust in the criminal justice system. These indicators would be instrumental for the more comprehensive definition of the problems, which criminal justice institutions face, and for more effective monitoring of public opinion fluctuations. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2011. 91p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed February 28, 2012 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=15927 Year: 2011 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Criminal Justice Policy Shelf Number: 124300 |
Author: Kostov, Georgi Title: Illegal Logging in Bulgaria Summary: This report analyses the aspects and extent of illegal logging in Bulgaria. WWF shows that the volume of illegally logged timber amounts to 3.7 million cubic metres per year, or 45% of the annual harvest. Most of this is used as fuelwood, but about 1 million cubic metres are processed by the timber industry. The authors point to an urgent need to improve law enforcement and prosecutions for violations, to increase motivation for forest staff by removing obstacles to their work and increasing salaries, to assess logging companies and exclude those violating legislation, and to improve the cooperation between the National Forestry Board and revenue and customs authorities. Details: World Wildlife Fund, European Forest Programme and the Danube Carpathian Programme, 2005. 29p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 15, 2012 at: http://www.forestconsulting.net/Downloads/Publications/finalillegalloggingbulgariafebr05.pdf Year: 2005 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Forest Management Shelf Number: 125304 |
Author: Koleva, Desislava Title: Comprehensive Response to Child Pornography: Thematic Study on the System for Prevention of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children in Bulgaria Summary: This study set out to explore the existing system and practices in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe for prevention and fighting child pornography. In the course of work the authors identified the need to provide an overview of the subject of online sexual exploitation and abuse of children and not just its manifestation in child pornography production and distribution. The Comprehensive Response to Child Pornography project is implemented by Save the Children Norway SEE Regional Office in cooperation with the Office of the State Coordinator for Anti-trafficking in Human Beings and Illegal Immigration in Bosnia and Herzegovina which invested financial and human resources in addressing this problem. The project is also financially supported by OAK Foundation. This study was conducted by the Centre for Inclusive Education which is partnering Save the Children in the first phase of the project with the main task to provide an overview of the situation in Bulgaria and identify and recommend good practices. The overarching goal of this study is to present a comprehensive perspective to the problem of sexual exploitation and abuse of children in cyberspace by outlining the main aspects and consequences of this crime, analyzing what has been achieved and what else can be done to improve the coordination of the fragmented approach taken so far. The specific objectives of the study were as following: - to study the existing system, procedures and capacities for prevention and fighting online sexual abuse and exploitation of children through child pornography in Bulgaria; - to understand and, if possible, suggest recommendations for addressing the challenges and improving the system; - to identify good practices that can be adopted and transferred by civil society organizations and public authorities in BiH. Why focusing on child pornography? The partners in this project have recognized that crimes against children are changing because of the advance in technology, particularly the Internet and information and communication technologies (ICTs). For the past decade most efforts have been focused on anti-child trafficking systems while also touching on other often accompanying manifestations of child sexual exploitation. Child trafficking for sexual purposes and prostitution are undoubtedly priority areas for prevention work in SEE countries. However, the spread of online sexual exploitation, including child pornography, through the advancement of ICTs which has been so far not in the spot light, should also be addressed as a priority in child protection policies. This research focuses on online sexual exploitation of children in its manifestation through child pornography materials but discusses also other ensuing aspects and dangers of the use of such materials in ‘grooming’ or enticing children over the Internet for sexually-oriented interactions that often spill over from cyberspace into real life. It attempts to present a more comprehensive picture of the harms involved in the exposure or involvement of children with child pornography. It argues that child pornography is not less harmful than physical violation. Child pornography is a fundamental abuse, not just a by-product of physical sexual abuse. Recent studies suggest that the use of children to make pornography ‘adds value’ to a commercial sexual exchange and assists in facilitating a child’s submission into other forms of commercial sex or sexual abuse. Early desktop study of official documents and research of secondary sources revealed a lack of up-todate data and scarce analysis materials regarding the situation and existing practices with regards to online sexual exploitation of children in Bulgaria. Despite these limitations, sufficient information was gathered to provide a broad overview of the situation in the country. The field research and round table discussion proved to be invaluable for analysis. They also served as a measure for validating information as different actors offered their perspective based on their practice. While the recommendations and main findings of this study are aimed primarily at Bulgarian and BiH civil society actors and decision makers, they will also be disseminated to relevant stakeholders and the broader public in order to achieve involvement and support of society in the fight against this form of child abuse. Details: Oslo: Centre for Exclusive Education & Save the Children Norway, 2009. 49p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed october 11, 2012 at: http://resourcecentre.savethechildren.se/content/library/documents/comprehensive-response-child-pornography-thematic-study-system-prevention- Year: 2009 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Child Pornography Shelf Number: 126679 |
Author: Gounev, Philip Title: Anti-Corruption Measures in EU Border Control Summary: The present study, commissioned by FRONTEX, provides academic and policy perspectives, as well as empirical data on corruption and anti-corruption measures observed in border guard institutions across the 27 Member States of the European Union. The report compares and analyses anti-corruption measures in EU Member States’ border guard services, as well as the strategies and instruments used in corruption investigations of border guards. The purpose of this study was to provide border guards with a general overview of the relevant academic and policy research available on the subject of corruption, as well as to review and analyse mechanisms of corruption and the principal anti-corruption measures targeting them. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2012. 165p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 24, 2012 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=16109 Year: 2012 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Border Patrol Shelf Number: 126792 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Reinstating the Duty-Free Trade at Bulgarian Land Borders: Potential Setback in the Fight Against Organized Crime and Corruption Summary: Since the early 1990s the duty-free shops along Bulgaria’s land-border crossings were used as a channel for illegal import of excise goods (cigarettes, alcohol and petrol). With the increase of excise and VAT taxes in the second-half of the 1990s, the risk of alcohol and cigarettes smuggling increased rapidly. The duty-free shops gradually evolved into one of the main channels for the smuggling of cigarettes, alcohol, and fuel. At that period, duty free operators existed without a legal regulation but only with a licensing permit from the Minister of Finance. The smuggling was tacitly tolerated from the highest political level. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2012. 4p. Source: CSD Policy Brief No. 32: Internet Resource: Accessed December 2, 2012 at http://www.csd.bg/fileSrc.php?id=20861 Year: 2012 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Border Control Shelf Number: 127105 |
Author: Gounev, Philip, ed. Title: Police Stops and Ethnic Profiling in Bulgaria Summary: Between June and December 2005 the Center for the Study of Democracy and Vitosha Research, supported by the Open Society Justice Initiative carried out a study of police stops. The resulting report Police Stops and Ethnic Profiling in Bulgaria examines the use of stops by the Bulgarian police, focusing on the practices of disproportionate stops of members of the Roma ethnic minority. The report also highlights issues related to police abuse during stops as well as crime among in Roma communities. The study is part of a Europe-wide initiative aimed to map discriminatory police practices across Europe. In addition to Bulgaria, research was carried out in Spain, Hungary and Russia indicating that there is disproportionate treatment of minorities by the police in all these countries. Police stops are the main point of contact between officers and citizens. Police officers view stops as essential for detecting and preventing crime. Therefore, the appropriate use of this tool is crucial to police efficiency, whereas when used in the wrong way, it could seriously deteriorate the relations between citizens and the police. Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2006. 90p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 23, 2013 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=7937 Year: 2006 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Police (Bulgaria) Shelf Number: 107708 |
Author: Gounev, Philip Martinov Title: Backdoor Traders: Illicit entrepreneurs and legitimate markets Summary: This dissertation examines the factors that determine the behaviour of criminal entrepreneurs in legitimate markets. The particular aspect studied is how such entrepreneurs enter a new market when they immigrate into a new country (Chapter 1). The empirical focus of the thesis is the Bulgarian illegal entrepreneurs involved in the sale of stolen cars. More specifically, the dissertation compares their market behaviour in Bulgaria and in Spain between the late 1990s and 2010. The empirical basis for the dissertation is a comprehensive analysis of summaries of 86 Spanish police investigations against organised crime networks, as well as fieldwork consisting of interviews with 79 offenders, law-enforcement officers, entrepreneurs, and car-dealers in Spain and Bulgaria (Chapter 2). To best understand the intertwining of criminal entrepreneurs and legitimate markets the thesis starts by examining the operations of the car markets in Spain and Bulgaria (Chapter 3). It goes on to explain the ‘car-theft industry’ – focusing on how criminal enterprises and networks are structured and operate (Chapter 4). The analysis then continues by comparing how stolen cars are sold by illegal entrepreneurs in Bulgaria and Spain, and the different ways in which ‘legal’ and ‘illegal’ markets intertwine (Chapter 5). The conclusion of this analysis is that Bulgarian criminal entrepreneurs failed to enter the market for used cars in Spain, and instead preferred to traffic and sell the stolen cars in Bulgaria. There are two sets of factors that explain the reasons behind this failure. The first one is the local socio-economic and historical legacies in Bulgaria, which explain how illegal entrepreneurs and buyers (typically part of local economic elites) are linked (Chapter 6), and the factors that fuel demand for stolen cars. The role of the Bulgarian immigrant community in Spain is also considered. The second set of factors, examined through the lenses of economic theories, includes the economic / business rationale that influences the illegal entrepreneurs’ behaviour when entering a market (Chapter 7). The thesis goes on to conclude (Chapter 8) that it is the first set, the complex socio-economic and historical factors that best explain the behaviour of criminal entrepreneurs and their failure to sell stolen cars in Spain. Details: London: The London School of Economics and Political Science, 2011. 307p. Source: Internet Resource: Thesis: Accessed July 7, 2013 at: http://etheses.lse.ac.uk/168/1/Gounev_Backdoor_traders.pdf Year: 2011 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Car Theft Shelf Number: 129261 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: The Hidden Economy in Bulgaria: 2011 – 2012 Summary: The deep penetration of hidden economic activities in Greece and other peripheral Eurozone members – a development which is at the epicenter of the continuing Eurozone debt crisis, has demonstrated that accurate understanding of the dynamics of the hidden economy is essential for improving public and private sector management. In the case of Bulgaria, an assessment of the hidden economy is an issue of particular importance as the country is facing serious challenges in all of its aspects – gray, black and informal economy. It is even more pressing in the light of the country’s current low level of competitiveness and its aspirations for participation in the European stability and sustainable growth initiatives such as Europe 2020 and the Euro-Plus Pact. The hidden economy in Bulgaria has decreased in 2011 – 2012 among both businesses and the population. Yet, the registered gains are modest. Deep structural labor market problems and long-term business environment issues continue to constitute favorable conditions for the development of hidden economic activities in Bulgaria. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2013. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 37: Accessed August 19, 2013 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=16342 Year: 2013 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Economic Crimes Shelf Number: 129661 |
Author: Yordanova, Maria Title: Countering Organised Crime in Bulgaria: Study on the Legal Framework Summary: The phenomenon of organised crime with its increasingly complicated national and transnational manifestations puts to a test the policies, legislations and lawenforcement capacities of the individual States. The intensifying transnational nature of the offences related to organised crime faces both the international community and the regional unions with a serious challenge. The national diversity and the internationalisation of organised crime require vigorous development of the legal regulation of this phenomenon at the national and international level, so as to cover all possible manifestations of this type of criminal behaviour. The adequate legal framework and its effective implementation are crucial for the achievement of satisfactory results in countering organised crime. The subject of the present publication is an assessment of the criminal legislation in Bulgaria, as well as of legislative provisions beyond criminal law, which are relevant to the fight against organised crime. The first part explores the substantive law on the organised criminal group and the main problems in connection with its definition and its differentiation from other forms of concerted criminal activity. The analysis covers the acts of forming, directing and participating in an organised criminal group as well as the provisions outlining other offences committed upon assignment by or in execution of a decision of such a group. The envisaged penalties and the provisions allowing for more favourable consequences in exchange for voluntary cooperation in the course of the investigation are examined as well. The study focuses on Bulgarian legislation and, at the same time, assesses the conformity of the national legal framework to international standards. The second part discusses the fundamental rules and concepts of criminal procedure law and of other relevant laws, as well as the problems posed by their implementation which impact the effectiveness of the pre-trial authorities and of the court in handling cases of organised criminal groups. The analysis and assessment cover the general legal framework of evidence, means of proof and methods of collecting evidence, the regulation of specific means of proof and methods of collecting evidence, the applicability of special legal concepts (plea bargain agreement, summary procedure etc.) and methods (access to traffic data, measures for remand in organised crime cases etc.). Within this range of issues, prominence is also given to the debate regarding the establishment of a specialised criminal court and prosecutor’s office. The study takes into consideration the opinions and views of judges, prosecutors, investigating magistrates, investigating police officers, lawyers and members of the academic community shared in a number of interviews conducted by the authors of the study. Data in the public domain, information provided by the criminal justice authorities, as well as the available trial and interpretative case law have been used as well. Account is furthermore taken of the positions expressed by other authors in the existing albeit still scanty research papers and publications on the subject. The purpose of this publication is to catalyse a further discussion on improving the legal framework and bringing it into conformity with international standards, as well as taking measures for its more effective implementation while complying with the fundamental principles of criminal procedure and respecting human rights. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2012. 149p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed August 19, 2013 at: http://www.globalinitiative.net/download/general/europe-russia/CSD_Countering%20Organised%20Crime%20in%20Bulgaria_Study%20on%20the%20Legal%20Framework.pdf Year: 2012 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Organized Crime (Bulgaria) Shelf Number: 129666 |
Author: Human Rights Watch Title: Containment Plan: Bulgaria's Pushbacks and Detention of Syrian and Other Asylum Seekers and Migrants Summary: Since the Bulgarian government announced a plan in early November 2013 to contain and reduce the number of asylum seekers and other migrants irregularly crossing the border with Turkey, Bulgarian authorities have systematically prevented Syrians, Afghans, and other undocumented people from entering Bulgaria to lodge asylum claims. Refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants gave Human Rights Watch detailed accounts of 44 incidents involving at least 519 people in which Bulgarian border police apprehended and summarily returned them to Turkey without proper procedures and with no opportunity to lodge asylum claims, often using excessive force. Containment Plan also documents Bulgaria's failure to provide new arrivals with basic humanitarian assistance in 2013 such as adequate food and shelter, the brutal conditions of detention, inadequacies in Bulgaria's asylum procedures, shortfalls in its treatment of unaccompanied migrant children, and failure to support and integrate recognized refugees. With the help of the European Union, the humanitarian situation in Bulgaria has improved in 2014, but this coincides with the implementation of the pushback policy and a drop in arrivals of new asylum seekers. This suggests that those fortunate enough to have entered before the door was slammed will now be treated decently, but the rest will face a closed door. Containment Plan calls on the Bulgarian government to end summary expulsions at the Turkish border and to stop the excessive use of force by border guards. It also calls on the Bulgarian government to improve the treatment of detainees and detention conditions in police stations and migrant detention centers. Details: New York: HRW, 2014. 84p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 22, 2014 at: http://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/reports/bulgaria0414_ForUpload_0.pdf Year: 2014 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Asylum Seekers Shelf Number: 132731 |
Author: Gachevska, Katerina Title: Building the new Europe : soft security and organised crime in EU enlargement Summary: This thesis examines the policy and politics of the fight against organised crime in the process of the European Union's enlargement to Eastern Europe and the Balkans. It covers the period between the end of the Cold War in 1989 and the second Eastern enlargement in 2007 which saw the emergence of a new normative base for international relations and the expansion of the international security agenda focusing on 'soft security' issues and threats from weak rather than powerful states. The thesis explores this new 'soft security' thinking and investigates its practical application in EU's policy of building member-states in the New Europe with a focus on the case study of the fight against organised crime in Bulgaria and its EU-guided criminal justice reform. The thesis looks at these developments from both internal and external perspective and focuses on the practicalities of the policy itself such as the development of legislative changes, institutional reform and direct transfer of Western European expertise to Bulgarian institutions. The main findings of the thesis have led to a conclusion which questions the quality and premises of these policies. The thesis argues that the Bulgarian state and the European Union institutions have subscribed to a highly problematic organised crime discourse and agenda which has negatively influenced the quality of their relationship with the Bulgarian electorate. Details: Wolverhampton, UK: University of Wolverhampton, 2009. 300p. Source: Internet Resource: Dissertation: Accessed November 20, 2014 at: http://core.kmi.open.ac.uk/download/pdf/1932919.pdf Year: 2009 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Criminal Justice Reform Shelf Number: 134181 |
Author: Grigorov, Grigor Title: Forfeiture of Illegal Assets: Challenges and Perspectives of the Bulgarian Approach Summary: Confiscation of property acquired through crime and the forfeiture of illegal assets are instruments for active counteraction of serious crimes that are of nature to generate economic gain for their perpetrators or related persons. The application of such mechanisms indicates a firm political will and a particular governmental policy to combat crime. It is grounded on the awareness of an existing high risk of growing organised crime and corruption and the perception for its growing negative effect on the governance and economic development of the country. The reasons behind the adoption of legislation for forfeiture of illegal assets differ from one country to another but this specific approach should be taken as a clear policy against cumulation of assets whose legal origin cannot be proven. It aims at prevention and provides for dissuasive effect on future perpetrators. Ireland was one of the first countries to introduce in 1996 Asset Forfeiture in the form of the Criminal Assets Bureau which initiates civil forfeiture proceedings. Ever since this instrument has been part and parcel of a whole set of special legal provisions and institutions designed to enhance the effectiveness of counteracting organised crime and corruption in a large number of countries. Applying such an asset forfeiture mechanism in itself is a manifestation of a particular policy aiming to combat serious crime. The relevance of this problematic is in removing the economic gain from serious crime (including, but not limited to drug trafficking, corruption, money laundering, organised crime) in order to discourage the criminal conduct. Its importance is evidenced by the number of multilateral treaties that have been concluded and provide obligations for states to cooperate with one another on confiscation, asset sharing, legal assistance, and compensation of victims. Several United Nations conventions (including the United Nations Convention against corruption) and multilateral treaties contain provisions with regard to forfeiture of assets. The policy of counteracting organised crime and corruption signals a different approach in forfeiture of illegally acquired assets in favour of the state, in particular in view of the different problems it is designed to tackle. For example in Ireland the major objective is counteracting terrorism, and in Italy - forfeiture of assets belonging to the mafia. By its special nature the so called civil forfeiture allows for sanctioning of a larger set of actions related to strengthening the rule of law and restoring social justice. By its nature this is an encompassing policy - it is aimed not only at forfeiture of proceeds of crime in favour of the state as an ancillary mechanism regardless of the imposed penalty and the outcome of the criminal proceedings, but at any illegal assets (that is assets whose origin cannot be proven). Details: S0fia: Transparency International Bulgaria, 2014. 109p. Source: Internet Resource: National Report for Bulgaria: Accessed August 24, 2015 at: http://www.transparency.bg/media/cms_page_media/141/NationalReport_TI-BG_en_Forfeiture_of_Illegal_Assets_in_Bulgaria.pdf Year: 2014 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Asset Forfeiture Shelf Number: 136564 |
Author: Dimitrova, Kamelia Title: Child Trafficking among Vulnerable Groups: Country Report Bulgaria Summary: Bulgaria is one of the key source countries of victims of trafficking exploited in Europe. Between 2011 and 2013, from 540 to 580 Bulgarian victims of trafficking have been identified throughout the EU. Between 12% and 15% of these victims are children. The predominant type of exploitation of child trafficking in last reported years (2012 and 2013) is begging and pick-pocketing. Although there is no centralised data collection system that would provide information on the socio-demographic profiles of victims, according to expert assessments between 50 and 80% of all victims are of Roma origin. In some specific forms of exploitation, such as begging and pickpocketing, the share of Roma is reportedly around 90%. The study looks at three specific forms of child trafficking - for begging, for pickpocketing and for sexual exploitation of boys - and determines the way these crimes affect the Roma as a group at risk. The three forms of exploitation were chosen in order to address a gap of knowledge on the way the crime manifests itself, the mechanisms of recruitment and of exploitation. While begging and pickpocketing have been recognised as subsistence strategies for impoverished families, they have only recently been recognised as potential form of trafficking and have been criminalised as such respectively. The third form - trafficking for sexual exploitation of boys - remains under the radar of counter-trafficking bodies and empirical knowledge is much needed to improve victim identification and assistance. Against a background of limited data and having in mind the sensitivity of the topic, the report relied on participatory research methods to gain better understanding on the profiles of victims of trafficking, on risk groups and factors of vulnerability, as well as on the mechanisms of recruitment and of exploitation of Roma children victims of trafficking. Roma organisations and community members were actively involved in the preparation and conduct of fieldwork, thereby ensuring that the topic was approached in a non-discriminatory manner and that the research was carried out with a necessary degree of sensitivity to those involved. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 201. 77p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 19, 2015 at: http://childrentrafficking.eu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/CONFRONT_Country-Report_Bulgaria.pdf Year: 2015 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Begging Shelf Number: 137015 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Child Trafficking among Vulnerable Roma Communities Summary: Trafficking in persons is a lucrative crime and a gross human rights violation, which affects all EU Member States. Trafficking in children merits special attention of anti-trafficking efforts as children are especially vulnerable to trafficking, re-trafficking and victimisation and the number of children trafficked throughout the EU is on the rise. Investigation, protection and prevention measures for child trafficking are especially needed as the exploitation of children and violation of their rights have dramatic negative effects on children and society as a whole. While there is some empirical evidence on trafficking in human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation of women, other forms of trafficking have not drawn attention of researchers, academics and policy makers. This means that victims of exploitation fall outside the radar of identification and thus cannot access the available assistance. Having this in mind, a consortium of seven partner organisations3 sough to explore three specific under-researched forms of child trafficking in order to contribute to the knowledge on how and why children fall prey to exploitation. The three forms studied are child trafficking for the purpose of begging exploitation, child trafficking for the purpose of pick-pocketing and child trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation of boys. Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2015. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 54: Accessed May 5, 2016 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17436 Year: 2015 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Begging Shelf Number: 1388943 |
Author: Shentov, Ognian Title: Radicalisation in Bulgaria: Threats and Trends Summary: The phenomena of radicalisation today develop and change at high speed, with their extreme forms manifested globally. The destructive dimensions of (violent) Islamist or right-wing radicalisation have become dramatically visible in Europe posing serious challenges to European societies at large. This report aims to address a knowledge gap with regard to how and to what extent internationally observed radicalisation processes are manifested in Bulgaria. Four different forms of radicalisation are investigated, including Islamist radicalisation, right-wing and left-wing radicalisation, as well as football hooliganism. The report provides policy makers and the expert community with a systematic overview of the main risks to which the Bulgarian society is exposed, as well as of the main actors and ideas, the repertoire of actions and the groups at risk associated with radicalisation. The report outlines recommendations for improvement of the policy and institutional response with regard to radicalisation by way of monitoring and prevention measures as well as multi agency collaboration and community engagement. Details: Sophia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2015. 190p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 13, 2016 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17621 Year: 2015 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Extremism Shelf Number: 139314 |
Author: Markov, Dimitar Title: Policies on drugs in Bulgarian prisons: Background report Summary: This report provides a snapshot of the situation of drug users in Bulgaria. As it is aimed to serve as a basis for comparative study on policies and practice towards drug users, particularly in prisons, in Bulgaria and Norway, it presents the country's context - general information on the country and its criminal justice system, policy and legislation on drugs explaining what are the perimeters of drug restriction and what are the national policies towards drug use. This information is illustrated with statistics on crime rates and drug crime in particular. The report also investigates how court looks upon the fact that the accused are using or addicted to narcotic substances within the criminal proceedings and specifically on the type and the term of the sentence. Finally, it looks upon the sanctions available for drug users and their situation once sentenced to imprisonment - what treatment, rehabilitation and harm reduction programmes are available in different prisons. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2016. 29p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 13, 2016 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17594 Year: 2016 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Drug Abuse and Addiction Shelf Number: 139417 |
Author: Bjornsen, Ulla Title: National Study on Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (DGBV) and Elaboration of a Victims Support Model (VSM): Legal, Institutional and Policy Analysis Summary: Although throughout the last decade the Bulgarian authorities have adopted a number of acts and subsidiary legislation, as well as improved the existing ones, related to domestic and gender-based violence (DGBV), the country still has a long way to go to bring its legislation and practices in full compliance with EU and Council of Europe standards. The present analysis will attempt to show that Bulgaria has a fairly comprehensive legal framework for counteracting violence, affecting disproportionately women and girls. It includes, inter alia, the Law on Protection against Domestic Violence and the Regulation for its implementation, stipulating a civil law procedure for protecting those harmed; relevant provisions in the Criminal Code, criminalising bodily injury and other forms of violence against the person, plus a provision on punishing non-compliance with a domestic violence protection order; a body of legislation for protection and (financial) assistance of victims of crime, including a dedicated law, relevant provisions in the Criminal Procedure Code. In addition, a number of policy documents guide the work of institutions in co-ordinating their efforts to combat violence and protect groups of persons harmed, especially those with multiple vulnerabilities, such as Roma women and girls. Details: Sofia, Bulgaria: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2015. 49p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 13, 2016 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17581 Year: 2015 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Battered Women Shelf Number: 139431 |
Author: Dobreva, Natasha Title: Promotion of the Rights of Trafficked Persons in Bulgaria: A Human Rights Based Approach Summary: One of the problems many countries have in common, including Bulgaria, Romania and Slovakia, is the lack of access of victims of trafficking to legal counseling and aid. An adequate referral system which ensures that victims are informed about the relevant judicial proceedings and their rights from their very first contact with the authorities is missing. There are very few lawyers trained in working with trafficked persons. State-funded legal aid is scarce and often limited to no more than the formal presence of a lawyer during the trial. Even if formally victims have a right to claim compensation for the damages they suffered, in practice such claims are rarely awarded and, if they are, hardly ever executed. Provisions, such as the use of closed hearings or audiovisual means, that might protect the safety and privacy of victims are not effectively used. Many actors in the judicial system, including police, prosecutors, judges and lawyers, lack knowledge about trafficking and its psychological, social and health impacts on its victims. And in some cases victims are disrespectfully treated by representatives of the judicial system itself. As a result trafficked persons face major barriers in accessing justice and criminal proceedings often lead to their secondary victimization. At the same time, NGOs are not trained in providing legal counseling and only have limited funds to pay for legal aid and representation. Despite increasing awareness that trafficking and the exploitation of human beings under forced labour or slavery-like conditions constitute severe human rights violations, States tend to focus on the prosecution and punishment of the perpetrators, while the protection of the rights of trafficked persons lags behind. Often victims are purely seen as instrumental for the prosecution with little regard for the far reaching impact testifying against their exploiters may have on their current and future well-being, safety and life. Details: Sofia: Animus Association Foundation, 2013. 100p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed October 11, 2016 at: http://www.animusassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Promotion-of-the-rights-of-the-trafficked-persons-in-Bulgaria.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Forced Labor Shelf Number: 145417 |
Author: Petrunov, Georgi Title: Analysis of Social Network Models of Transnational Criminal Networks operating in the Southeastern Border of the European Union Summary: This paper examines the transnational criminal networks (TCN) operating in the Southeastern border of the European Union (SBEU). More specifically, the analysis focuses on TCN operating on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, which became the external border of the European Union after the country’s accession to the EU in 2007. The primary data used for the analysis is based on court rulings from four criminal trial cases in Bulgaria. The indictments for each of the four cases were also studied, in order to provide more details about the criminal activities of the TCN. Details: Bogota, Colombia: Vortex Foundation, 2013. 76p. Source: Internet Resource: Vortex Working Paper no. 10: Accessed February 23, 2017 at: http://media.wix.com/ugd/522e46_c7a68970d13d4fad80374ad3c7ffc0a7.pdf Year: 2013 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Border Security Shelf Number: 141199 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Improving and sharing knowledge on the Internet role in the processes of human trafficking and smuggling: National report for Bulgaria Summary: This concise report is based on a deep exploration of the Bulgarian web and in-depth interviews with key informants. It provides a specific focus on the use of Internet in the recruitment, transportation and advertisement of services in the processes of trafficking in human beings and smuggling of human beings (THB and SHB). Analysed are the life and the professional experiences of the key informants interviewed, as well as online contents predominantly with job advertisements for sex workers and cheap labour abroad. After outlining a more general country profile for Bulgaria's experience with and legislation combatting the process of trafficking in human beings, the report has identified common trends in the tactical approach to online recruitment and the potential risks of trafficking related to it. Details: Sofia: The Center, 2017. 39p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed July 1, 2017 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17951 Year: 2017 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Human Smuggling Shelf Number: 146496 |
Author: Mancheva, Mila Title: Risks of Islamist Radicalisation in Bulgaria: A Case Study in the Iztok Neighbourhood of the City of Pazardzhik Summary: T.the context of the escalation of extremist Islamist violence in many EC countries today, the issue of the risks of home grown Islamist radicalization in Bulgaria is the subject of heated public debates. Preventing and studying (Islamist) radicalization has become a priority in Europe, giving rise to wealth of publications that explore its motives and causes as well as the processes whereby individuals and groups come to espouse extremist ideas and engage in violent actions. Such studies are lacking in Bulgaria while worries about the potential influence that international terrorist organisations and the related Islamist extremist ideologies could exert in the country are rising. This working paper presents the results from a qualitative study aiming to attain understanding about the vulnerabilities to Islamist radicalisation among a group of inhabitants of the "Iztok" neighborhood of the city of Pazardjik who are considered at risk. The study explores the root causes and the social meaning of the adoption of Salafi interpretations of Islam on the part of sub group local Roma and the root causes and the social meaning of certain manifestations of sympathy with radical Islamist ideas and organisations among some members of the group. Careful attention is paid to the factors and channels through which the two processes are fostered. A discussion is provided to the issue of the vulnerabilities to potential radicalisation among members of the group of Roma professing Salafi interpretation of Islam. Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2017. 30p. Source: Internet Resource: Working Paper: Accessed July 5, 2017 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17937 Year: 2017 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Islamist Terrorism Shelf Number: 146513 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Extortion Racketeering: The Vulnerability Assessment Approach Summary: → Extortion racketeering is a latent form of crime, infamous for the low rates of reporting by the victims, which result in authorities being unaware of the real scale of the problem in their country. → The typical law enforcement approach is to investigate extortion incidents only when a victim files a report, whereas more pro-active policing and victim-focused prevention and support measures are needed in order to effectively tackle this type of crime. → Sector vulnerability assessments could help government authorities to identify, assess and hence understand the risks related to extortion of businesses in a given economic sector. → The vulnerability approach emphasises the examination of opportunities provided to organised crime groups by legitimate business and the broader socio-economic environment. → The assessment of the vulnerabilities to extortion of specific sectors and social groups is a useful tool that can facilitate prevention and investigation of extortion racketeering through enhanced deterrence and detection. → Vulnerability assessments aim at: a) ensuring better allocation of resources by competent authorities; b) informing the design of specific new policies or legislative measures; c) evaluating and adjusting administrative regulations or criminal justice tools and thus making them pertinent to the identified risks. Details: Sophia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2016. 8p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 63: Accessed September 18, 2017 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17788 Year: 2016 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Extortion Shelf Number: 147372 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Drug Users in Prison: Norway's Experience and Bulgaria's Chellenges Summary: KEY POINTS - For all criminal offences related to drugs, even for possession of small quantities intended for personal use, the main sanction according to Bulgarian criminal law is imprisonment. Unlike in Norway, non-custodial penalties in Bulgaria such as probation have extremely limited scope of application for drug-related offences. At the same time, other alternatives to imprisonment are virtually non-existent. - In prisons, the measures targeting drug users follow three different approaches: prohibition and punishment, rehabilitation, and harm reduction. Compared to Norway, however, the living conditions in Bulgarian penitentiary institutions are far worse and the existing specialised programmes for drug users are much more limited. - To increase the efficiency of the criminal justice policy against the use and distribution of drugs and to improve the situation of prisoners suffering from drug addiction, it is necessary to undertake a set of measures. These include the adoption of amendments to the criminal law provisions on drug-related crime, harmonisation of jurisprudence, implementation of measures related to the enforcement of custodial sentences and introduction of mechanisms for support and integration of individuals released from prison. Details: Sophia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2016. 9p. Source: Internet Resource: CSD Policy Brief No. 61: Accessed September 18, 2017 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=17757 Year: 2016 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Correctional Treatment Programs Shelf Number: 147379 |
Author: Physicians for Human Rights Title: Where There is Police, There is Persecution: Government Security Forces and Human Rights Abuses in Myanmar's Northern Rakhine State Summary: Minority groups living in Myanmar have faced profound and pervasive human rights violations for decades. This report documents widespread abuse by military and security forces in Myanmars Rakhine State, including detentions, extortion, beatings, raids, and restrictions on movement targeting the mostly Muslim Rohingya minority. It concludes that the Rohingya face such a systematic denial of rights that it pervades nearly every aspect of daily life. Rakhine State, in western Myanmar, is among the countrys poorest regions, and PHR found that systematic abuse of the Rohingya as well as of the minority Buddhist Rakhine people is only serving to exacerbate poverty and deprivation. As part of the report, PHRs investigators documented and mapped a network of 86 security checkpoints scattered across northern Rakhine State, where Rohingyas are routinely forced to pay bribes or face jail time and other types of brutality at the hands of security forces. Many Rohingyas told PHR that they often avoided seeking advanced medical care because of their fear of passing through checkpoints and suffering the consequent abuse and humiliation. In addition to the system of checkpoints, PHR gathered evidence of raids and a pervasive surveillance system in Rohingya-populated areas, as well as instances of forced labor and arbitrary detention and fines. These include onerous fees that Rohingyas must pay to leave their villages, register fishing nets, fix their homes even slaughter their own animals. While Myanmar has made major strides toward democratization, until changes are made to the countrys Citizenship Law which denies more than a million Rohingyas the right to a nationality and military forces end their campaign of subjugation, there will be little hope for peace and development in northern Rakhine State and elsewhere in Myanmar. Details: New York: Physicians for Human Rights, 2016. 32p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed April 2, 2018 at: https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/Burma-Rakhine-State-Oct-2016.pdf Year: 2016 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Bias-Motivated Crimes Shelf Number: 149653 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: Trafficking for Sexual Exploitation in Bulgaria: Criminal Finances and Capacity for Financial Investigations Summary: rafficking in human beings (THB) for the purpose of sexual exploitation has become one of the largest Bulgarian criminal markets since the beginning of the new millennium. After the lifting of Schengen visas for Bulgarian nationals in 2001, Bulgaria became a major country of origin for the trafficking in human beings exploited in the EU. THB and prostitution not only generate huge incomes for Bulgarian organised crime but also have detrimental social and economic impact on local communities. There is an urgent need to develop effective mechanisms for coordination between criminal and financial investigations within the prosecution, as well as with the other relevant institutions Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2018. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 78: Accessed July 26, 2018 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=18271 Year: 2018 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Human Trafficking Shelf Number: 150927 |
Author: Center for the Study of Democracy Title: The Tobacco Products Market in Bulgaria: Trends and Risks Summary: The illicit tobacco market is one of the key sources of revenue for organized crime in Bulgaria. During the economic turmoil in 2009-2014 the annual proceeds from this criminal activity have reached between 0.5% and 1% of the country's GDP. At the same time the budget revenues from tobacco taxation (both excise and VAT) contribute for 9 and 10% per year of the overall tax revenues in Bulgaria. The current report examines the development of the illicit tobacco market in Bulgaria through the prism of economic risks, the political environment in the country and the region, and recent changes in the involved criminal networks and the institutional capabilities for counteraction. The publication was prepared in the framework of the study "Illegal Trade in Tobacco Products and the Balkan Route: Overcoming Institutional Gaps and Corruption" and is funded by PMI-IMPACT, a global initiative to combat illegal trade and related crimes Details: Sofia: Center for the Study of Democracy, 2018. 16p. Source: Internet Resource: Policy Brief No. 75: Accessed July 26, 2018 at: http://www.csd.bg/artShow.php?id=18173 Year: 2018 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Illegal Trade Shelf Number: 150928 |
Author: Pro Asyl Title: Humiliated, ill-treated and without protection: Refugees and asylum seekers in Bulgaria Summary: In the first months of 2015, PRO ASYL has heard shocking accounts from asylum seekers reaching Germany via Bulgaria. These accounts include reports of inhumane and degrading treatment as well as torture. PRO ASYL has written up some of these accounts, mainly from asylum seekers and refugees who arrived in 2014, to serve as an example of the treatment experienced by many who travel through Bulgaria. The majority of the accounts provided are those of Syrian or Iraqi nationals. Following the closure of the Greek-Turkish border in August 2012, the overland flight route to Europe shifted course. This resulted in an increase in the number of asylum applicants in Bulgaria, as can be seen from the numbers of claimants: 2012: 1.385 people 2013: 7.145 people 2014: 11.080 people Of the claims made in 2014, over half were made by Syrian nationals. As is also happening elsewhere, Bulgaria's border zone is becoming increasingly militarised; the government is working towards sealing the border completely. According to Bulgarian authorities, 38.000 people tried to cross the Turkish-Bulgarian border in 2014. Of these, only about 6.000 reached Bulgarian territory. The attempts by the Bulgarian government to close the border have resulted in the refoulement of individuals at risk of persecution, contrary to human rights principles enshrined in international law. This has been independently verified by a number of international NGOs, including Human Rights Watch. In 2014, Frontex provided further resources, through the deployment of 170 additional experts, to assist with the policing of the Bulgarian border. Frontex's 2014 budget for Operation Poseidon Land, which operates in the zones along the Greek-Bulgarian borders, was 2.673.454 , 90 Euros. Details: Frankfurt, Germany: The Author, 2015. 42p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed March 18, 2019 at: https://www.proasyl.de/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Bulgaria_Report_en_Dez_2015.pdf Year: 2015 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Asylum Seekers Shelf Number: 155007 |
Author: Dzhekova, Rositsa Title: From Criminals to Terrorists and Back?: Quarterly Report: Bulgaria Summary: An initial examination of people arrested for terrorism or related offences in Bulgaria appears to discount any relation between crime and terrorism, as none of the defendants examined thus far had been convicted of a prior offence and there are no indications of any involvement in crime. As such, the data gathered so far does not support the phenomenon of "gangster jihad." Since the majority of the subjects examined are foreigners arrested in transit, with no prior background in Bulgaria, information is scarce, hence it is difficult to generalise based on the available evidence. This is because Bulgaria is not a major source of foreign terrorist fighters but rather a transit country, while the overall risks of homegrown radicalisation are considered low. It should be noted that there are a number of challenges when exploring the crime-terror nexus in Bulgaria. A significant proportion of terrorism arrestees are not Bulgarian citizens, and foreigners are often subjected to what is referred to as Compulsory Administrative Measures (CAMs). As the State Agency for National Security (SANS) indicates, CAMs do not represent a sanction but rather are preventive in character. The CAMs applied to foreigners include three types of measures: expulsion, revocation of right to reside, and a prohibition on entering the territory of the country. When CAMs are applied, individuals are not charged in Bulgaria at all and consequently, information about their background is scarce, making the establishment of a crime-terror nexus (or lack thereof), very difficult. The application of CAMs because of indications of links to terrorism or terrorist organisations do not always involve an arrest, as indicated by the discrepancies between the number of arrests reported to Europol and the number of CAMs that that have been applied by SANS. The high proportion of foreigners among the terrorism arrestees can be explained by the fact that Islamist radicalisation and home-grown religious extremism are not widespread in the country and terrorism can largely be described as an external threat. The data gathered in Bulgaria so far suggests that a relationship between crime and terrorism is tenuous, both in terms of crime financing terrorist activities and with regard to criminals evolving into religious extremists. Details: Bratislava, Slovak Republic: GLOBSEC Policy Institute, 2018. 7p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed May 20, 2019 at: https://www.globsec.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/From-Criminals-to-Terrorists-and-Back-Quarterly-Report-2018-Bulgaria.pdf Year: 2018 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Bulgaria Shelf Number: 155916 |
Author: Global Detention Project Title: Immigration Detention in Bulgaria: Fewer Migrants and Refugees, More Fences Summary: KEY FINDINGS: -Despite a 91 percent drop in irregular arrivals since 2015, detention remains a key feature in the countrys response to migration flows. -Conditions in detention are generally substandard and marred by allegations of abuse and poor access to procedural standards. -Asylum seekers are sometimes held in "pre-removal" detention while their claims are processed. -Depending on their nationality, asylum seekers can face severe discrimination, which observers argue is intended to serve as a method of deterrence. -While migration law prohibits the detention of unaccompanied children, it is permitted under asylum law. Details: Geneva, Switzerland: Global Detention Project, 2019. 25p. Source: Internet Resource: Accessed June 19, 2019 at: https://reliefweb.int/report/bulgaria/immigration-detention-bulgaria-fewer-migrants-and-refugees-more-fences-april-2019 Year: 2019 Country: Bulgaria Keywords: Asylum Law Shelf Number: 156524 |