Сборник с доклади от научнотеоретична конференция „Българското разузнаване и контраразузнаване. Предизвикателства, проблеми, перспективи“ (Докторанти и студенти). Том 2
Proceedings of the Scientific-Theoretical Conference „Bulgarian Intelligence and Counterintelligence: Challenges, Problems, Perspectives“ (Doctoral students and students). Vol. 2
Author(s): Boris Srebrov Mihaylov, Teodor Danailov Dechev, Kostadin Petrov Kostov, Boris Vladimirov Zarkov, Simona Tsvetanova Markova, Liana Krasimirova Nikolova, Kristiyan Dimitrov Petkov, Margarita Atanasova Mollova, Ivan Emanuilov Varbanov, Atanas Tomov Nikolov, Filip Angelov Ivanov, Dimitrinka Milchova Muhur, Oleksii Polishchuk, Gergana Avgustinova Knizharova, Arseni Emilianov Kolarov, Mihail Atanasov Atanasov
Contributor(s): Georgi Lyubenov Manolov (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Economy, Governance, Communication studies, Government/Political systems, International relations/trade, Security and defense, Military policy, Criminology, ICT Information and Communications Technologies, Globalization, Geopolitics, Peace and Conflict Studies, Transport / Logistics, Fake News - Disinformation, Secret Service / Secret Police
Published by: Висше училище по сигурност и икономика (ВУСИ)
Keywords: Bulgarian intelligence; counterintelligence; national security; international security; challenges; problems; perspectives; geopolitics; state policy; diplomacy; strategic intelligence; operational information; intelligence structures; types of security
Summary/Abstract: This collection, published by the Higher School of Security and Economics, reflects the highly relevant and academically accomplished scientific-theoretical conference „Bulgarian Intelligence and Counterintelligence: Challenges, Problems, Perspectives“, held in April 2025. The edition contains keynote and plenary reports, structured into two scientific panels: „Intelligence in the Contemporary Security Environment – Priorities, Requirements, Directions for Improvement“ and „Contemporary Intelligence and Counterintelligence and the Security and Public Order Services – History, Current State, Vision for Development.“ The research papers focus on topics such as: „The National Intelligence System – Challenges and Perspectives,“ „The Deep State, Political System Reform and Security Services in the Republic of Bulgaria,“ „Diplomacy and Intelligence in Contemporary International Relations,“ „The Intelligence Structures of the EU,“ „Outer Space as a Domain for Military Operations,“ among others. The authors include renowned Bulgarian and foreign scholars and academics. The proceedings of the scientific-theoretical conference of the Higher School of Security and Economics are published by the HSSE Publishing Complex. The edition also has an online version, available on the HSSE website – https://www.vusi.bg/.
- E-ISBN-13: 978-619-7774-25-2
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-619-7774-24-5
- Page Count: 172
- Publication Year: 2025
- Language: English, Bulgarian
Необходимостта от сравнителни изследвания на реформите в разузнавателните и контраразузнавателните служби на държавите, преминали през преход от тоталитаризъм към демокрация и пазарна икономика
Необходимостта от сравнителни изследвания на реформите в разузнавателните и контраразузнавателните служби на държавите, преминали през преход от тоталитаризъм към демокрация и пазарна икономика
(The need for comparative studies of reforms in the intelligence and counterintelligence services of countries that have undergone a transition from totalitarianism to democracy and a market economy)
- Author(s):Teodor Danailov Dechev, Boris Srebrov Mihaylov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Governance, Sociology, Security and defense, Methodology and research technology, Evaluation research, Politics of History/Memory, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:6-60
- No. of Pages:56
- Keywords:intelligence; counterintelligence; reforms; transition; transitology; lustration; covert operations
- Summary/Abstract:The need for more comprehensive comparative studies of reforms and transformations in the special services of countries that have undergone a transition from totalitarianism or other dictatorship to a democratic order and market economy is examined. It is concluded that there is no lack of similar studies in an European or global plan, but they remain somewhat fragmentary, do not even cover the entire area of countries that have undergone various forms of transitions and do not treat all aspects of the reforms and transformations carried out. The targeted comparative studies would also have a certain pedagogical value in teaching various disciplines related to national security issues. The lack of sufficiently comprehensive studies for single countries („case studies“) turns out to be one of the problems that hinder the work of researchers in the field of comparative transition studies in the sphere of ensuring national security in countries that have undergone a transition from totalitarianism and dictatorship to democracy. A bibliography of 91 titles is proposed, which does not claim to be comprehensive, but brings together scientific texts that could be useful to any researcher dealing with the problems of transformations in the field of intelligence and counterintelligence.
Геополитически аспекти в българското дипломатическо разузнаване през периода 1914 – 1915 г.
Геополитически аспекти в българското дипломатическо разузнаване през периода 1914 – 1915 г.
(Geopolitical aspects in Bulgarian diplomatic intelligence during the period 1914-1915)
- Author(s):Kostadin Petrov Kostov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, International relations/trade, Security and defense, Military policy, Geopolitics, Politics of History/Memory, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:62-69
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Bulgaria; World War I; diplomats; intelligence; telegrams
- Summary/Abstract:The article analyses the main activities and achievements of the Bulgarian diplomatic intelligence and the information it provided in the period 1914-1915. Attention is paid to the significance of the military and political information, obtained from diplomatic and other sources. What is also being examined is the role of strategic intelligence information in making vital geopolitical decisions with regional and international impact that determined Bulgaria's fate in long-term perspective.
Военното разузнаване в НРБ през периода 1944 – 1989 г.
Военното разузнаване в НРБ през периода 1944 – 1989 г.
(Military intelligence in the people's Republic of Bulgaria during the period 1944-1989)
- Author(s):Boris Srebrov Mihaylov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Government/Political systems, Security and defense, Military policy, Politics of History/Memory, Peace and Conflict Studies, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:70-77
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:intelligence; military; operations; collaboration; funds; archival
- Summary/Abstract:Military intelligence is the oldest Bulgarian special service, established in 1891 as a unit within the Ministry of War. Over the years, it underwent numerous structural and organizational transformations, becoming known in 1950 as the Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the Bulgarian People’s Army (RU-GS). During the socialist period (1944-1989), the operations of Bulgarian military intelligence were significantly subordinated to the interests and control of the Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) of the Soviet Army. Archival documents, disclosed by the Commission for the Disclosure of State Security Files and published in several collections, clearly show the strong ideological alignment, politicization, and dependency on the Soviet side. After 1963, cooperation intensified between the military intelligence services of the Warsaw Pact member states. Bulgaria played a leading role in initiating intelligence coordination efforts, organizing the first meeting between military intelligence bodies in 1964 in Sofia. Despite efforts toward collective coordination, documents indicate that countries such as Romania and Hungary often demonstrated an independent stance, especially in relation to the USSR and China. The operations of ID abroad were primarily concentrated in Western Europe, the United States, and Asia, often acting as an extension of the Soviet GRU. The dependency was particularly strong in countries like China and Korea, where Bulgarian intelligence carried out tasks mandated by the USSR. Participation in operations such as „RYAN“ (a large-scale Soviet initiative to monitor a potential NATO nuclear strike) reveals the scale of Soviet control, although Bulgarian officials appeared somewhat reserved regarding its implementation. The analysis of archival records indicates that, although Bulgarian military intelligence functioned under close coordination with Soviet structures, in certain moments it managed to assert its own vision and defend national interests within the framework of the Warsaw Pact.
Служителите от разузнаването след служба в България: социална адаптация, икономически предизвикателства и рискове за националната сигурност
Служителите от разузнаването след служба в България: социална адаптация, икономически предизвикателства и рискове за националната сигурност
(Intelligence officers after service in Bulgaria: Social adaptation, economic challenges and risks for national security)
- Author(s):Boris Vladimirov Zarkov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Labor relations, Security and defense, Social psychology and group interaction, Welfare services, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:78-82
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:former intelligence officers; economic instability; criminal backgrounds; reintegration; national security; support programmes; social adaptation
- Summary/Abstract:The report examines the difficulties of former intelligence officers in Bulgaria – social isolation, psychological and economic problems, and risk of criminality, exacerbated by corruption and links between mafia and state. It recommends reintegration through programmes, mentoring and anti-corruption reforms to improve their welfare and the country's security.
Предизвикателства пред способностите за разузнавателен анализ и прогнозиране на бъдещите събития и тенденции в Близкия изток
Предизвикателства пред способностите за разузнавателен анализ и прогнозиране на бъдещите събития и тенденции в Близкия изток
(Challenges to the ability to perform intelligence analysis and predict future events and trends in the Middle East)
- Author(s):Kostadin Petrov Kostov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Geography, Regional studies, Security and defense, Inter-Ethnic Relations, Geopolitics
- Page Range:83-91
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Middle East; Islam; nationalism; religious fanaticism; intelligence analysis
- Summary/Abstract:The geopolitical position of Bulgaria and our membership in the European Union places us on the front line of dynamically developing processes in the Middle East. The challenges faced by Bulgarian security services are constantly increasing in volume and growing in number. The intelligence analysis will require impartiality, interdisciplinary approaches and a multidimensional perception of the issues.
Технологии и сигурност: перспективи пред българското разузнаване и контраразузнаване
Технологии и сигурност: перспективи пред българското разузнаване и контраразузнаване
(Technology and security: perspectives or Bulgarian intelligence and counterintelligence)
- Author(s):Boris Vladimirov Zarkov, Simona Tsvetanova Markova
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Labor relations, Security and defense, EU-Approach / EU-Accession / EU-Development, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:93-96
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:intelligence; technology; National Security; OSINT; modernization
- Summary/Abstract:The report examines the historical evolution and current challenges facing Bulgarian intelligence and counterintelligence. It analyzes the need for adaptation to the digital age through the implementation of technologies such as Palantir for big data analysis and Bellingcat's OSINT methods. The report highlights the potential of these tools to enhance operational efficiency and threat monitoring. However, their implementation faces major obstacles – technological dependency, limited resources, lack of qualified personnel, and legal/ethical concerns. A strategic approach involving investments, training, and cooperation with the EU and NATO is recommended to overcome these barriers. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with traditional methods to build a sustainable national security model.
Разузнаването в съвременната среда на сигурност – приоритети, изисквания, насоки за усъвършенстване
Разузнаването в съвременната среда на сигурност – приоритети, изисквания, насоки за усъвършенстване
(Intelligence in the modern security environment – priorities, requirements, guidelines for improvement)
- Author(s):Liana Krasimirova Nikolova
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Governance, Communication studies, Security and defense, Hybrid Warfare, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:97-104
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:intelligence; security; hybrid threats; cyber risks; institutional coordination; strategic priorities
- Summary/Abstract:The report explores the current challenges facing intelligence activities in Bulgaria and proposes specific solutions to address them. The main contribution lies in the in-depth analysis of essential risks such as hybrid and cyber threats, weak inter-institutional coordination, and ethical dilemmas, as well as in identifying strategic priorities for development. The document has practical value for the intelligence community, providing guidance for institutional modernization and effective national security protection.
Ролятa нa изкуствения интелект в рaзузнaвaнето и контрaрaзузнaвaнето за противодействието нa хибридни зaплaхи срещу нaционaлнaтa сигурност нa Бългaрия
Ролятa нa изкуствения интелект в рaзузнaвaнето и контрaрaзузнaвaнето за противодействието нa хибридни зaплaхи срещу нaционaлнaтa сигурност нa Бългaрия
(The role of artificial intelligence in intelligence and counterintelligence for countering hybrid threats against Bulgaria's national security)
- Author(s):Kristiyan Dimitrov Petkov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, International relations/trade, Security and defense, Hybrid Warfare, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:105-109
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:cybersecurity; intelligence; counterintelligence; artificial intelligence; cyber threats; cooperation
- Summary/Abstract:This report analyzes the role of intelligence and counterintelligence in countering hybrid threats to Bulgaria's national security. It examines the nature and characteristics of these threats, as well as the key functions of intelligence and counterintelligence services to identify, prevent and neutralize them. Special attention is paid to the impact of artificial intelligence on these processes, as well as to the specific challenges faced by the Bulgarian services in this area.
Кибершпионаж в бизнес средите: предизвикателства и стратегии за защита
Кибершпионаж в бизнес средите: предизвикателства и стратегии за защита
(Cyber espionage in business environments: challenges and defense strategies)
- Author(s):Margarita Atanasova Mollova, Ivan Emanuilov Varbanov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Governance, Economic policy, Security and defense, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:110-115
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:cyber espionage; corporate security; cyber threats; intellectual property; cryptography; SIEM; social engineering; regulations; artificial intelligence; automation
- Summary/Abstract:Cyber espionage is an increasing threat to business environments, affecting corporate security, intellectual property, and companies’ competitiveness. This report examines the main objectives and methods of cyber espionage, as well as the profiles of the attacking entities—both state and non-state actors. It analyzes the challenges businesses face in detecting and preventing such attacks, alongside technological and legal constraints. The report proposes defense strategies, including cyber intelligence, the use of cryptography, SIEM systems, and corporate security policies. Additionally, it explores the significance of international and national regulatory frameworks and future trends in the field, particularly the role of artificial intelligence and automation in cybersecurity.
The techno-strategic nexus: Intelligence and strategic operations in the age of higher technologies
The techno-strategic nexus: Intelligence and strategic operations in the age of higher technologies
(The techno-strategic nexus: Intelligence and strategic operations in the age of higher technologies)
- Author(s):Atanas Tomov Nikolov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Peace and Conflict Studies, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:116-120
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:cyber espionage; cybersecurity; threat vector; strategies for cyber resilience; cyber attack
- Summary/Abstract:This paper examines the evolving relationship between intelligence, counterintelligence, and emerging technologies in modern conflict environments. It provides an analytical overview of the strategic capabilities. Through the lens of landmark cyber incidents, such as the Bulgarian NRA Agency data leakage of 5 million Bulgarian citizens, Stuxnet virus and SolarWinds breach, the paper highlights the shifting terrain of intelligence warfare and the imperative of resilience-driven security models both on physical level and cyberspace.
Криптографията в разузнаването: приоритети, изисквания и насоки за усъвършенстване в съвременната среда на сигурност
Криптографията в разузнаването: приоритети, изисквания и насоки за усъвършенстване в съвременната среда на сигурност
(Cryptography in intelligence: priorities, requirements, and directions for improvement in the modern security environment)
- Author(s):Margarita Atanasova Mollova
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:121-127
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:cryptography; intelligence; cybersecurity; modern cryptography; information protection; innovations; security; cipher
- Summary/Abstract:This study explores the significance of traditional cryptographic methods and their evolution in the context of modern threats, such as cyberattacks, espionage, and disinformation. It analyzes classical cryptographic approaches used in intelligence, such as substitution ciphers, polyalphabetic ciphers, and rotor machines, as well as their historical application in ensuring information security. The focus is on evaluating the effectiveness and vulnerabilities of older cryptographic methods, particularly in the context of modern technology. The study emphasizes the importance of combining historical cryptographic methods with contemporary approaches to information protection. It also examines the need for training new generations of intelligence specialists who understand the value of classical cryptography and its place in modern intelligence structures.
Киберсигурност в контраразузнаването – предизвикателства, заплахи и иновации
Киберсигурност в контраразузнаването – предизвикателства, заплахи и иновации
(Cybersecurity in counterintelligence – challenges, threats, and innovations)
- Author(s):Filip Angelov Ivanov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Governance, Communication studies, Security and defense, Fake News - Disinformation, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:128-131
- No. of Pages:4
- Keywords:cybersecurity; counterintelligence; blockchain; cyber espionage; social engineering; disinformation; artificial intelligence; cryptography
- Summary/Abstract:With the advancement of digital technologies, cybersecurity has become a key factor in the effectiveness of counterintelligence services. In today’s geopolitical landscape, states, organized crime groups, and individual hackers increasingly target the information systems of intelligence and counterintelligence agencies to steal classified information, destabilize government structures, and manipulate public opinion. This report examines the main cybersecurity threats in counterintelligence, including cyber espionage, social engineering, disinformation campaigns, and attacks on critical infrastructure. Special emphasis is placed on the role of blockchain technologies and artificial intelligence in protecting sensitive data, authenticating intelligence operations, and preventing insider attacks. The report also analyzes successful international practices, including NATO and EU initiatives in the field of cybersecurity.
Контраразузнаването като инструмент за защита на обществото и държавата – настоящи и бъдещи предизвикателства
Контраразузнаването като инструмент за защита на обществото и държавата – настоящи и бъдещи предизвикателства
(Counterintelligence as a tool for protecting the society and the state – current and future challenges)
- Author(s):Dimitrinka Milchova Muhur
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Governance, Communication studies, Security and defense, Fake News - Disinformation, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:132-140
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:counterintelligence; national security; hybrid threats; cybersecurity; artificial intelligence
- Summary/Abstract:Counterintelligence plays a crucial role in protecting national security and public order. This paper focuses on the development and functions of Bulgarian counterintelligence services in a comparative context with American and Israeli practices. It analyzes hybrid threats, cyberattacks, and the growing role of artificial intelligence, highlighting the necessity for international cooperation and investments in new technologies.
Activities of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in Europe, Countermeasures and Changes to Security Systems
Activities of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in Europe, Countermeasures and Changes to Security Systems
(Activities of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in Europe, Countermeasures and Changes to Security Systems)
- Author(s):Oleksii Polishchuk
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy, Geopolitics, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:141-147
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:GRU; Russian intelligence; countermeasures; Unit 29155; Europe
- Summary/Abstract:In the context of the current geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe, especially with Russia's active hybrid conflict against Ukraine, which has been ongoing since 2014, and a full-scale invasion in 2022, the issue of countering Russian threats is of particular relevance to European countries. This requires constant analysis and implementation of the received intelligence information into the national and collective security systems of Europe. The main actors of Russia's hybrid influence on Europe are the Federal Security Service (FSB), the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), and the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Federation (formerly the Main Intelligence Directorate, still known by its previous acronym, GRU). This study analyzes the GRU's activities in Europe and methods of countering Russian intelligence.
Еволюцията на разузнаването: комунизмът, Студената война и съвременните хибридни заплахи
Еволюцията на разузнаването: комунизмът, Студената война и съвременните хибридни заплахи
(The evolution of intelligence: communism, the Cold War, and contemporary hybrid threats)
- Author(s):Gergana Avgustinova Knizharova
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, Security and defense, Peace and Conflict Studies, Fake News - Disinformation, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:148-154
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:intelligence; counterintelligence; Cold War; cyber espionage; hybrid threats; disinformation
- Summary/Abstract:This report presents an in-depth analysis of the development of intelligence and counterintelligence in the context of key geopolitical events, starting from the Cold War period to today’s hybrid threats. The primary focus is on the methods used, technological innovations, and the transformation of intelligence agencies at various historical stages. Attention will be given to the tactics of classical human intelligence, the role of double agents, and the technical means employed by the KGB, CIA, and other leading intelligence agencies. The changes that occurred after the end of the Cold War are analyzed, including the development of cyber intelligence, the intelligence challenges posed by new global threats, and the evolving strategies of national intelligence agencies. The report draws a parallel between the lessons of the past and contemporary security challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptation and modernization within intelligence structures.
Българското разузнаване и контраразузнаване – състояние, проблеми, перспективи
Българското разузнаване и контраразузнаване – състояние, проблеми, перспективи
(Bulgarian intelligence and counterintelligence – status, problems, perspectives)
- Author(s):Arseni Emilianov Kolarov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, Security and defense, Geopolitics, Fake News - Disinformation, Secret Service / Secret Police
- Page Range:155-163
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Bulgarian intelligence; counterintelligence; National Security; geopolitical challenges; cyber threats; hybrid threats
- Summary/Abstract:Bulgarian intelligence and counterintelligence play a key role in national security, foreign policy, and protection against internal and external threats. The main challenges faced by these structures include the dynamically changing geopolitical environment, technological advancements, and growing cyber threats. Some of the key problems are insufficient coordination between agencies, limited resources, and a shortage of qualified personnel, as well as the need for reforms to improve efficiency and transparency. The prospects for development include the modernization of intelligence technologies, enhanced cooperation with partner agencies from NATO and the EU, and adaptation to new challenges such as hybrid threats and information warfare. Strengthening these structures is essential for national security and the country's stability.
Развитие на националната политика по безопасност на движението по пътищата
Развитие на националната политика по безопасност на движението по пътищата
(Development of the National Road Safety Policy)
- Author(s):Mihail Atanasov Atanasov
- Language:English, Bulgarian
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Economy, Governance, Security and defense, Socio-Economic Research, Transport / Logistics
- Page Range:164-168
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:national strategy; safety; roads; road accidents; ZDP
- Summary/Abstract:The report examines the development of the national road safety policy. The national road safety strategy in the Republic of Bulgaria and the action plans for its implementation are analyzed and assessed. The content of the strategy, as well as the number of implemented measures in the field of road safety, lacks consistency, comprehensiveness and integration of the policy implemented by the individual responsible institutions, which would stem from a unified management framework.
