Bulgaria’s low election turnout is a symptom of the growing mistrust for the ruling GERB party and the country’s political system.

Last weekend’s election saw GERB continue as the largest party in Bulgaria’s parliament, a success for former Prime Minister Boyko Borisov. Antoaneta Dimitrova argues that while European commentators may see the election result as confirmation of the government’s good management of the country, the low turnout of 53 per cent suggests that Bulgarians have become disenchanted with GERB and the country’s political system. Recent protests over government corruption, and an electoral system that means 25 per cent of voters are not represented in parliament, may mean more troubled times are ahead in Bulgarian politics.