In a resolute move, the Bulgarian Prosecutor General, Borislav Sarafov, has emphatically called upon both officials and citizens to put an immediate halt to the annual Lukov March in Sofia. The impetus behind his urgent appeal stems from the event’s unabashed propagation of overtly antisemitic sentiments.
This significant declaration emerged following a pivotal meeting that convened Sarafov alongside Yaakov Hagoel, the chairman of the World Zionist Organization, and Gusti Yehoshua Braverman, who leads the Department for Israelis Abroad at the organization. Sarafov articulated his concerns, framing the march not merely as a public gathering, but as a blatant affront to the core values of tolerance, mutual respect, and equality. He cautioned about its insidious potential to unravel Bulgaria’s social fabric and jeopardize its international relations.
Sarafov went as far as to advocate that Bulgaria formally embrace the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, seeking to weave this into the fabric of national law. This, he argued, is a vital component of the global crusade against the pervasive forces of hate and the grim specter of Holocaust denial.
“The Lukov March undermines democracy, and its hateful messages have no place in our society,” Sarafov stated with unwavering conviction. He specifically condemned antisemitic phrases, such as the infamous “From the river to the sea,” insisting that such rhetoric be outlawed as it fundamentally challenges the legitimacy of nations and communities.
“I implore all responsible authorities within Bulgaria and the broader international community to decisively confront the spread of hate and ensure that expressions of racism, antisemitism, and incitement are thoroughly eradicated,” Sarafov declared, his resolve palpable.
Hagoel showered praise on Sarafov’s strong stance, stating, “I commend the Bulgarian prosecutor general for his unequivocal call to stop the spread of hate and antisemitism. I urge nations worldwide to adopt the IHRA definition and inscribe it into law. The World Zionist Organization remains committed to collaborating with governments and international entities to safeguard Jewish communities across the globe.”
Yehoshua Braverman chimed in with a fervent endorsement: “I applaud Sarafov’s firm stand against the Lukov March and his clarion call to abolish the spread of antisemitism and incitement. It is imperative to uphold the fundamental tenets of tolerance, equality, and human rights, while categorically rejecting hatred directed towards Jews.”
