The leaders of Turkey and Russia are often compared. But their differences are more instructive than their similarities.(This article was first published on 22 November 2014)
Turkey's president is confirmed once more as the master of Turkish politics. Now he faces his greatest challenge.
Turkey's election result is a tribute to its vibrant democracy. But there are hard political and economic tests to come.
This vote presents Turkey with momentous choices, with the combative figure of its president at the centre of them all.
In Bulgaria, Armenian communities have thrived since the fifth century and found refuge there during Ottoman massacres. So why has Bulgaria yet to officially recognise the Armenian genocide?
What are some of the lessons learned from the EU’s experiences in Bulgaria and Romania, and what could they mean for Turkey?
A messy election in a troubling time leaves Bulgarians still waiting for light.
One lesson we are learning is that although Brussels is important, it is not a universal solution. Brussels is used as an excuse in Bulgaria so that we do not worry about political lobbying, the judicial system, and the media, because somebody else has the big stick. An interview with Dimitar Bech
The panic in Britain over prospective Bulgarian and Romanian immigration is based on misunderstanding of European rules. It is also at odds with the country's best traditions, says Dimitar Bechev.
A prolonged crisis in Bulgaria exposes the bankruptcy of an entire political system in desperate need of renewal, says Dimitar Bechev.
The eruption of protest in Istanbul and other Turkish cities expresses vigorous opposition to the political direction of prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, says Dimitar Bechev.
A mixed result offers some satisfaction to all of Bulgaria's largest parties. But signs of escape from the country's political and economic troubles are elusive, says Dimitar Bechev.
