Regarding the suspension of the ACTA ratification, Mr. Stanishev stated that; “this is a first step in the right direction, but far from enough. After hundreds of protests across Europe, GERB just wants to stand still and wait to see what the European Union decides – but European and Bulgarian citizens alike have already decided. The extraordinary showing of solidarity against ACTA demonstrates that any agreement needs to respect our most fundamental rights. Bulgaria must withdraw from ACTA”.
ACTA, negotiated behind closed doors since 2007, is at risk of allowing internet providers to violate Internet privacy and restrict open discourse. There are also concerns that it would limit the access to generic medicine. A declaration against the agreement was adopted by the PES Presidency of 9 February 2012.
The Bulgarian decision follows recent suspensions of ratification in Poland, Czech Republic and Lithuania. Germany has said that it will take account of the decision of the European Parliament, scheduled for early June.
