site.btaTraining Programmes Help Young Journalists Better Understand and Report on EU Topics, Head of European Parliament Office in Bulgaria Says

The experience from previous training programmes shows that they have been extremely valuable for participants, Teodor Stoychev, Head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Bulgaria, said at the opening of the fourth training programme for young journalists from national and regional media outlets, organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) in cooperation with the European Parliament in Bulgaria.

Ten young reporters from seven media outlets are taking part in this year’s programme, which aims to promote a better understanding and coverage of EU issues in Bulgarian media. Stoychev said he is happy that he has the opportunity to continue working with journalists who have taken part in the trainings over the past three years. “They have learned more about how the European Union works and are now better equipped to cover topics happening in Sofia that are connected to Brussels,” he said.

Stoychev emphasized the importance of social media as a tool for reaching wider audiences. “The most important part of reaching as many people as possible is actually your work, of journalists and the media, who can explain a complex European decision to citizens in a clear and accessible way,” he added.

Speaking about the new EU legislation restricting political advertising on social networks, Stoychev acknowledged that it presents challenges but stressed that it does not diminish the need for responsible and well-informed communication with the public. “If you don’t understand how the European Union functions, your reader, viewer, or listener won’t understand your message either,” he said, emphasizing the need for journalists to be familiar with EU institutions and processes.

He also drew attention to the problem of disinformation, underscoring the crucial role journalists play in countering it. “Your work is essential — to help people understand what a given European decision actually means,” he added.

In conclusion, Stoychev expressed hope that the training will help young journalists contribute to Bulgaria’s active participation in the European Union, as a country that not only follows, but also shapes EU policies.