Bulgarians took to the polls on Sunday in their seventh general election in just over three years, with little optimism that a stable government will emerge to halt political instability.
The public’s disillusionment with politicians has allowed for extreme political voices to grow, supported by alleged Russian disinformation campaigns.
This is effectively eroding public support for the democratic process and increasing the popularity of pro-Russian and far-right groups.
The cycle of elections is having a significant impact on Bulgaria’s economy and foreign policy as the country stands to lose billions of euros in EU recovery funds due to a lack of reforms.
Full integration into the open-border Schengen area and joining the eurozone are also likely to be further delayed.
There was no clear victor following the most recent vote in June, and the seven groups elected were unable to form a viable coalition, which some think will happen again this time.
Vazrazhdane, the main pro-Russia party in Bulgaria, which could become the second-largest group in parliament, has so far been sidelined in parliament with no new indications of future alliances.
The far-right, ultra-nationalist and populist party demands that Bulgaria lift sanctions against Russia, cease aiding Ukraine, and hold a referendum on its NATO membership.
The reformist, pro-EU We Continue the Change/Democratic Bulgaria bloc is predicted to secure third place.
The Movement for Rights and Freedoms, traditionally the representative of Bulgaria’s large ethnic Turkish minority, has recently divided into two competing factions.
One faction is led by party founder Ahmed Dogan, while the other is headed by US-sanctioned businessman and former media tycoon Delyan Peevski. Both are expected to gain seats in parliament.
There is also a possibility that up to four smaller groups could surpass the 4 percent threshold required for parliamentary entry, likely making it more difficult to form a solid governing alliance.
Initial exit poll results will be released after the polls close at 8pm GMT, with preliminary results anticipated on Monday.