The work of journalists from smaller media outlets in Bulgaria is particularly difficult, according to the annual report of the Council of Europe presented in Brussels. It is noted that in Central and Eastern European countries, especially in Bulgaria, Hungary and Serbia, regional journalists work in more difficult conditions compared to their colleagues from national media. In the case of regional publications, pay, institutional support and protection for journalists are weaker, reported BTA. 

Examples of cross-border pressure on journalists cited in the report include last year's revelation by prosecutors in London that Bulgarian journalist Christo Grozev was targeted by a Russia-led spy ring. Grozev, who works for the investigavive outlet "Bellingcat" is known for his anti-Russian investigations, the report adds.