AI SUMMARY Northern Bulgaria, especially the regions of Vidin, Vratsa, Pleven, and Montana, remains one of the most underdeveloped areas in the EU. Historical agricultural peripheral status, uneven industrialization, weak infrastructure, low investment, unemployment, and demographic decline exacerbate poverty and population migration. Socio-economic vulnerability contributes to the rise…

AI SUMMARY Romania remains one of the main countries of origin for victims of human trafficking in the EU, despite a relatively low level of violent crime. In 2020–2024, 2662 victims were identified, about half of whom were children, who were predominantly exploited sexually or through forced labor.…