Venelina Popova is a seasoned journalist and correspondent for Bulgarian National Radio in Stara Zagora. Currently, she contributes articles to the website “Za Istinata.” In early December, she was recognized at the inaugural Anti-Corruption Fund awards, “Red Line: Journalists Against Corruption,” for her series of reports uncovering the origins of donations made by Deputy Delyan Peevski.
When asked what this award means to her, Popova stated, “I was slightly surprised, but it wouldn’t be honest if I said I wasn’t happy. Every person, regardless of their professional field, feels joy when their work receives recognition. Conversely, remaining completely indifferent is more of an exception, an anomaly, or a pose.”
Through her investigative work, Popova has exemplified the crucial role of journalists in holding power to account and shedding light on matters of public interest. Her dedication to uncovering the truth plays a vital part in fostering transparency and combating corruption in society.
What Happens to a Journalist Who Stands Against Corruption in Bulgaria?
– Different things happen. It depends on whom you confront because corruption is a collective term. However, an investigation typically focuses on a specific individual or group of people—politicians, oligarchs, businessmen, magistrates, etc. Strangely enough, it seems to me that judicial proceedings are often the best form of response from the affected party seeking to clear their name. If the journalist has made an effort to avoid giving grounds for accusations of defamation or other punishable offenses, they have nothing to fear. I speak from experience. I have endured other things, like having my apartment broken into—not to steal anything valuable, but merely to scatter my belongings on the floor, leaving me to ponder what message such actions were meant to convey. Fortunately, I have not been physically assaulted, but I have been pursued at night in a car and offered bribes.
You were the target of a fierce negative campaign due to your reports on the donations from Deputy Delyan Peevski. How did you handle this? Do you have any advice for other journalists?
– I am naturally expressive, and usually, when I am attacked without reason, I react strongly. But this time, I was surprised at myself because I took the publications against me, circulated by all the oligarch’s outlets, completely indifferently—that’s the right word—detached, as if it weren’t about me. I cannot explain my reaction; perhaps if I had been attacked in a more intelligent manner, my emotional response would have been different. Moreover, through these attacks, Peevski’s publications inadvertently drew even greater public interest to my articles. If they had been experienced, intelligent, and intuitive journalists, they would have anticipated this effect.
I wouldn’t presume to offer a recipe or advice because, as I said in response to your previous question, every situation is different. That’s why there are very few investigative journalists in Bulgaria, but those who are afraid do not join the dance.
