Greece, Bulgaria: Political Protests Erupt

Greece and Bulgaria — two countries greatly affected by the European economic crisis — are facing political turmoil after their governments made controversial decisions that were rejected by their respective populations. Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras' decision to temporarily shut down public television and Bulgarian Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski's attempt to appoint a controversial figure as head of the National Security Agency generated protests in the two countries, where economic difficulties have already created political and social tension. However, although the Greek and Bulgarian governments are fragile, their collapse is unlikely in the short term.