Economic Potential of 600 Million Euros: How Refugee Integration Can Stimulate Bulgaria's GDP

Better integration of refugees into the Bulgarian economy holds the potential for additional growth of approximately 600 million euros. This is a conclusion from a new study by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the research agency ESTAT, titled "The Unused Potential of the Economic Integration of Refugees in Bulgaria".

According to the data, in 2025, the contribution of refugees to the country's annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was approximately 471 million euros. However, experts emphasize that this figure could be significantly higher if existing barriers to their full professional development are overcome.

Key Challenges to Integration

The study identifies several main barriers that hinder the unleashing of the economic potential of arrivals:

• Limited proficiency in the Bulgarian language;
• Difficulties in the recognition of foreign qualifications and professional experience;
• Problems with access to financial services, including opening bank accounts;
• Limited recognition of humanitarian documents as valid identity documents.

The analysis points out that if refugees gain access to training, recognition of their skills, and work corresponding to their experience, they could help not only themselves but also Bulgarian enterprises, which often experience labor shortages.

Economic Opportunity for the Country

Support for initial integration is critical, especially for people who have gone through traumatic events and loss of property. The study emphasizes that inclusion measures are not just a humanitarian gesture, but a real economic opportunity for the host country. By supporting their independence, Bulgaria can turn this demographic factor into a sustainable driver of the economy.

The full results of the study will be officially presented at an event at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski". The initiative is part of the UNHCR's global "50 to 35" strategy, aiming for refugees worldwide to achieve economic independence by 2035.