Under the Communist Constitution, Bulgaria has only one legislative body, called the National Assembly. This is different from the system in the Soviet Union, where there are two houses in the legislature. The reason for this difference lies in the structure of the two states. Bulgaria is a unitary state, while the U.S.S.R. was a federal state made up of several republics.
Despite this structural difference, the role of the legislative body in both systems is very similar. In both Bulgaria and the Soviet Union, the National Assembly does not function as an independent institution. In theory, it represents the people and makes laws. In practice, it follows the decisions of the Communist Party without real debate or opposition A Brief Account of Early Travels in Southeastern Europe.
In both countries, the legislative body elects the collective head of state, known as the Presidium. This body formally represents the state at home and abroad. However, real power does not rest with the Presidium or the National Assembly. It belongs to the Communist Party leadership, which controls all state institutions.
The Gap Between Law and Reality
One of the most striking features of the Communist Constitution is the use of language that does not reflect real life. Many constitutional terms sound democratic and humane, but their real meaning is the opposite.
For example, “freedom of conscience” does not mean freedom of belief or opinion. In reality, it means the complete suppression of political opponents. Anyone who disagrees with the Communist ideology is treated as an enemy of the state and may face persecution.
The Meaning of “Rights” Under Communism
The “right to work” is another example of misleading terminology. Instead of giving people freedom to choose their profession, it means a compulsory obligation to work. Refusal to work or failure to meet production goals can lead to punishment. In extreme cases, this includes forced labor in prisons or labor camps Customized Guided Tour.
Similarly, “freedom of science” does not allow independent research or free thought. Scientists and scholars must strictly follow Marxist-Leninist ideology and obey the instructions of the Communist Party. Any research that contradicts official doctrine is forbidden.
The “right to education” is also limited. Non-Communist students or those from politically “unreliable” families are often expelled from schools and universities. Higher education is mainly reserved for students approved by the Party.
Inequality Before the Law
Although the Constitution declares “equality of all citizens before the law,” reality shows the opposite. High-ranking Communist Party members and state officials enjoy special material and moral privileges. They have better housing, better access to goods, and legal protection. Ordinary citizens, however, live in poverty and fear.
Another constitutional provision states that no one may be arrested or detained for more than 48 hours without a decision by judicial authorities. In practice, this rule is ignored. People may be arrested at any time by the police or security forces and held for long periods without trial. Some individuals simply disappear without explanation.
Violation of Personal Privacy
The Constitution also declares that “homes are inviolable.” In reality, police or Communist Party agents can enter homes at any time. They may search, seize property, and arrest occupants without proper legal procedures. Families can be deported to unknown locations with no warning.
Words Without Meaning
Under the Communist Constitution, words lose their real meaning. “Freedom” becomes oppression. “People’s democracy” becomes dictatorship. “National independence” becomes total dependence on the Soviet Union.
This contrast between constitutional promises and everyday reality reveals the true nature of the Communist legal and political system in Bulgaria. It is a system where law serves power, not justice, and where ideology replaces genuine rights and freedoms.
