MINISTERIAL ADVISERS IN BULGARIA: DOES PROFESSIONALISATION EXCLUDE POLITISATION

Abstract

The study examines the Bulgarian model of ministerial advising through three interpretive case studies of advisers with extensive academic and administrative experience. It argues that politicization and professionalization coexist rather than contradict each other, shaping both the appointment and functioning of advisers in practice. The Bulgarian system is marked by minimal formal regulation, strong dependence on personal and party networks, and the absence of a stable corps of advisers. Advisers perform diverse functions - from expert policy work to political communication and acting as intermediaries between ministers, administration, and external actors - resulting in significant variation across ministries. Although formally subordinate, their real influence is situational and largely shaped by personal trust and informal relationships within the executive triangle. The respondents highlight the need for clearer qualification requirements and greater transparency to limit party-driven appointments and enhance public trust in the institution of ministerial advisers.