National radio is the prime source of news for most Bulgarians, according to Jackson. Although there are a few privately owned, local radio stations, national radio and television programs dominate the airwaves. But, that will probably change as private companies apply for licensing. Although newspapers have proliferated since the downfall of communism, they are struggling, and many are political tracts, Jackson said. Paper is expensive, and home delivery is an unheard-of luxury.
Publishers have little fear of libel suits in the current chaotic climate.
Journalists in Bulgaria do not do much investigative reporting, Jackson said. They depend mostly on wire reports or communiques handed out by government officials, but there are constraints that make reporting difficult. Money is tight, the telephone system is antiquated, there is limited access to electronic equipment, and reporters are often dependent upon public transportation to cover stories. Although Bulgarian journalists are elated to now have freedom of the press, in their enthusiasm, they frequently confuse opinion with objective reporting, Jackson said. For example, in one news story, a reporter used an obscene term to describe an official.