On 5 October 2026, the “The Voice of Busmantsi” civic forum was held at the Elin Pelin – 1926 Community Centre in Busmantsi, as part of the project “Together for Iskar District: Participation, Dialogue and Solutions”. The project is implemented by the Bulgarian School of Politics “Dimitry Panitza” with the financial support of Sofia Municipality – Europe 2026 Program, in partnership with Iskar District and the Elin Pelin – 1926 Community Centre in Busmantsi. The forum brought together residents of Busmantsi, representatives of the district administration and citizens for an open discussion on the problems and needs of the local community.
The event was opened by Ivan Nachev, Executive Director of the Bulgarian School of Politics “Dimitry Panitza”. Tsveta Tocheva, Deputy Mayor of Iskar District, took part in the forum as a representative of the district administration. Her participation provided an opportunity for the questions and concerns raised by residents to be discussed directly with a representative of the local authorities. During the discussion, residents were able to share their specific observations and expectations concerning the living environment and development of Busmantsi, as well as to raise questions with the district administration. The discussion was moderated by the political scientist Tatiana Burudzhieva, who guided the conversation towards the key issues raised by participants and facilitated an open dialogue between citizens and the representative of the local authorities. The discussion emphasised the need for the problems facing the local community to be clearly articulated and addressed and for them to serve as a basis for seeking concrete solutions.
One of the most serious issues raised by residents concerned a burst sewage pipe at the Temporary Accommodation Centre for Refugees. According to participants, the damage causes an unpleasant smell and raises concerns about hygiene and the health environment in the area. Residents called for the problem to be resolved promptly and for clearer information to be provided about the actions being taken. Another important issue discussed was the poor condition of the road infrastructure in Busmantsi. Residents raised questions about the need to improve and maintain roads and streets, which are an essential part of the everyday living environment in the settlement. The unsatisfactory condition of the green spaces in Busmantsi was also discussed. Residents pointed out that these areas require not merely regular maintenance, but comprehensive renovation and refurbishment in order to become better maintained, safer and more functional spaces for the local community.
Particular attention was also given to communication between the district administration and citizens. According to participants, there is insufficient regular information about developments in Busmantsi and about the actions taken by institutions in response to issues raised by the local community. The discussion highlighted the need for more consistent dialogue and better feedback to residents.
The forum demonstrated that the residents of Busmantsi have clear expectations of the local authorities and are willing to actively participate in discussions on issues affecting their everyday lives. At the same time, the direct participation of a representative of the district administration provided an opportunity for citizens’ views to be presented directly to the local authorities and for possible courses of action to be discussed.
