On May 29, 2025, the discussion "Collective Action: Anti-Corruption and Transformational Governance" was held in Sofia as part of the "Business Integrity and Sustainability" forum, organized by the UN Global Compact Network Bulgaria, Transparency International Bulgaria, and the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria.
The forum brought together representatives from the public sector, business, and civil society to outline concrete solutions for building a business environment based on transparency, integrity, ethics, and long-term sustainability.
Minister of Justice Georgi Georgiev opened the event, emphasizing the need for transparent lobbying legislation and effective public-private cooperation in the fight against corruption.
According to Kalin Slavov, Executive Director of Transparency International Bulgaria, integrity in business is not an obstacle but a guarantee for growth. He pointed out that a culture of integrity within organizations encourages employees to be active participants in problem-solving rather than passive observers. “Whistleblowers often act out of a sense of professional honor – businesses can harness this energy constructively if they build a culture of trust and open communication,” Slavov stated.
Dimitar Tsotsorkov, Chair of the Global Compact Network Bulgaria, also emphasized that socially responsible behavior is not only a moral imperative but a strategic asset. Companies that uphold high standards of accountability and ethics are already demonstrating business success and leading by example toward positive change.
During the panel discussion "Business Integrity in Action – Collective Actions Against Corruption", participants outlined steps to promote transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices – key prerequisites for a stable and predictable economic environment.
The forum concluded with a shared understanding that sustainable progress requires commitment from both business and the state – through a clear legal framework, effective management of public resources, and regulatory stability. The role of the media was also highlighted as a guardian of integrity and public trust. ________________________________________
Why business integrity matter for the Bulgarian economy?
Business integrity and anti-corruption standards are not just ethical values – they are economic assets.
Companies that implement clear rules, transparency, and accountability
Attract foreign investors looking for stable and predictable environments;
Build trust with partners, clients, and institutions;
Reduce costs related to corruption, informal payments, and legal risks;
Retain and develop qualified talent who seek transparency and ethical leadership;
Gain easier access to European programs and international markets, where compliance with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards is increasingly required.
In the long run, this leads to a more sustainable and competitive economy, reduces the size of the informal sector, and boosts public confidence in the market system.
Bulgarian businesses have much to gain – and are already gaining – when ethics are placed at the core of growth.
