STRATEGIC VISION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMART CITY SYSTEMS IN BULGARIA

Abstract

Dynamic climate and technological changes are placing new demands on urban spaces. In Bulgaria, there is a strong contrast in digital readiness between large and small municipalities. This study aims to define a long-term strategic vision for the transition to smart city systems in our country, tailored to national and local specificities. Through the application of Gap analysis, critical gaps in technological integration, cybersecurity, human resource capacity and the regulatory framework in the country have been identified. As a result of the analysis, a conceptual model has been developed, built around four main pillars (technological, environmental, civic and governance), and a Roadmap for phased institutional development and full systemic integration of the Bulgarian smart city has been proposed.