Position of the Bulgarian Sociological Association regarding ethnic tolerance and the prevention of stigmatization of groups of people in Bulgarian society
The Bulgarian Sociological Association (BSA) has always defended democratic values as the foundation of free and open contemporary societies. As a professional association, the BSA does not accept the stigmatization of differences, including differences based on ethnicity. Sociological knowledge provides enough arguments in support of building up an inclusive and tolerant society, founded on the recognition and defence of equality indignity. As researchers and professors we do not condone any statements or practices, which maintain and intensify inequalities, in the form of underestimating the negative effects of pejorative labeling of particular ethnic groups. Throughout the years the BSA has maintained the professional community’s dedication to democratic values and this cannot be questioned. We insist on informing the public that the BSA as an institution has no reason to react to the statements of individual sociologists who are not its members. The BSA’s position is principled and advocates sociologists’ engagement in upholding democratic values, equality in dignity, along with their contribution to social inclusivity, tolerance and respect for differences in Bulgarian society.
Chair of BSA’s board
Prof. Rumiana Stoilova
13 November 2020
bsa administrator
About the author