This article analyzes the determinants of public support for environmental policies in Bulgaria—a post-socialist context marked by low salience of ecological issues, socio-economic pressures, and fragile institutional trust. Based on descriptive statistical analysis of a nationally representative face-to-face survey conducted in 2023 (N = 1002), it explores environmental awareness, motivations, and readiness for pro-environmental behavior (PEB). The findings reveal a distinctive pattern—a weak engagement paradox—where low awareness nonetheless coexists with high declared willingness to act. This readiness is mainly shaped by financial motives, local contexts, and generational differences, while trust remains concentrated in scientific expertise rather than political institutions. The study argues that declarative support, even when influenced by social desirability, can serve as a policy resource. Low-cost behavioral interventions, such as nudging, could leverage this latent willingness by making sustainable choices more visible and socially rewarding, gradually strengthening trust and engagement.

This study explores the emergence, core characteristics, and historical evolution of the ethno-religious political subculture in Bulgaria between 1878 and 1934. Applying the concept of political subcultures, it analyzes how Muslim communities—including Turks, Pomaks, Tatars, Circassians, and Roma—formed a distinct political subculture united by religious affiliation. The research shows that this subculture emerged as a response to historical traumas, loss of social status, and marginalization following Bulgaria’s liberation. It developed resilient strategies for political adaptation, including reliance on international law, internal consolidation, and cooperation with Bulgarian agrarian and left-wing movements.