As part of the English for Journalists program, sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Sofia, local journalists recently participated in an engaging and thought-provoking workshop led by Todor Galev from the Center for the Study of Democracy.
The session brought together media professionals from across the region to examine critical issues, including foreign influence mechanisms and media capture in Southeast Europe and Bulgaria.
Todor Galev, Director of Research at the Center for the Study of Democracy, is a sociologist with over 20 years of experience, has an extensive background in socio-economic and sociological studies across Bulgaria, Southeast Europe, and the EU. He specializes in the analysis of foreign economic influence, disinformation, media ownership, state capture, and anticorruption. Galev has also worked on a range of issues, from energy sector governance to innovation policies and military-civil cooperation in high-tech industries.
During the workshop, Galev shared his extensive research and insights, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of how foreign entities shape political and media landscapes. His presentation included an in-depth analysis of cross-border projects and foreign companies operating in Bulgaria, highlighting their influence on local governance and policy-making. Galev also outlined specific strategies used to exert political influence, providing valuable insights into the complexities of Bulgaria’s local dynamics.
A key focus of the workshop was on media capture—the control or manipulation of media outlets to serve specific interests. Galev explored its operation at both regional and local levels, equipping journalists with methodologies and tools to investigate and expose such practices. Participants learned about analytical approaches, the importance of verifying sources, and the latest findings on media challenges in the region.
The workshop’s interactive format encouraged active participation, enabling attendees to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions. Galev addressed key concerns raised during preliminary conversations, making the session not only informative but also highly relevant to the journalists’ day-to-day work.
This workshop marked another milestone in the English for Journalists program, which seeks to enhance the professional capacity of local journalists by improving their English proficiency and offering opportunities to deepen their expertise. Through initiatives like this, the program continues to empower media professionals, promoting ethical and independent journalism in the region.
