Document Type

Honors Thesis

Publication Date

5-2012

Abstract

In modern Bulgaria corruption is one of the significant concerns plaguing the current legal system. With historical roots in the Ottoman Empire and the Communist regime, Bulgaria faces challenges in sustaining a strong judicial system that holds its members accountable. Since the transition from communism to democracy in 1989, Bulgaria’s biggest challenge has been reforming its judicial system to combat corruption. Despite the number of reforms to the system, the Bulgarian legal system is perceived to be among the most corrupt in the world. Addressing the issue of corruption in Bulgaria’s legal system is only possible through reforms centered around creating an environment where corruption cannot be easily practiced. These reforms must specifically attend to matters of judicial independence, accountability and discretion in the judicial system. The objective of this thesis is to answer three questions: what are the most significant faults of the Bulgarian judicial system that contribute to corruption? Where did these errors come from? How can they be resolved?

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