We all complain about corruption in Bulgaria, that there are way more police on the roads here than anywhere in Western Europe. They stop you all the time. And yet, the driving is still terrible, much worse than other places where they don't have all these police. So we complain about all the backhanders they are obviously getting, while not actually doing their job. Who hasn't gone for the old "20 leva get out of jail free card?"  So, it's a bit hypocritical to complain, really. On the other hand, almost any time I have been pulled up on something, it has been very minor, say, forgetting to switch on my lights during the day, or during the night. Things that would almost certainly fall on the good side of "discretion" in the UK. You'd be reminded of what you hadn't done correctly and sent on your way. But then again, the police there don't get 20 quid into their pocket for their trouble if they threaten to charge you.
John Alexander Adam, UK

I have instigated corruption in Bulgaria. I used to slip the ticket conductor 10 leva and get into the sleeping carriage on the way to Romania half price. And several times with the cops. I love corruption in Bulgaria. Until now, it has only made my life easier, never bothered it.
Charles Parker, UK

I have bribed policemen for minor traffic offences such as driving without my lights on during the day, not having my ID at hand, and once for speeding – I was 5 kmph over the limit. Having said that, I was once way over the limit and the cops let me off as they just couldn't be bothered with the hassle of me not speaking Bulgarian and not having a licence that they could take away. Frankly, I have seen worse in Italy.
Hubert Briss, UK

Unfortunately, I know of a Bulgarian national who works for one of my international clients who is without doubt taking "tips" under the counter. I am at a total loss what to do about this and this is a measure of how low-level corruption can taint normal professional judgment. It's all-pervasive.
Ralph Holland, UK

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