ataka

Ataka (Bulgarian: Атака, meaning "Attack") is a nationalist political party in Bulgaria. It was founded in 2005 by Volen Siderov and positions itself as a populist movement advocating strong national sovereignty, strict law and order, and opposition to what it portrays as external influence on Bulgarian policy. The party's public rhetoric has included pronounced criticisms of immigration and what it views as threats to Bulgarian cultural identity, as well as calls for constitutional and security reforms.

Its platform emphasizes traditional values, support for the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, and skepticism toward international institutions, including the European Union. Ataka has participated in Bulgarian parliamentary elections since its creation and has won seats in the National Assembly at various times, acting as a vocal opposition force and, on occasion, aligning with other nationalist or conservative groups in parliamentary settings.

The party has been the subject of significant controversy and criticism for xenophobic and incendiary statements, leading to condemnation from mainstream politicians, human rights organizations, and some media outlets. It has faced legal challenges and debates over its rhetoric, with supporters arguing that it defends Bulgarian national interests and cultural integrity, while critics label it far-right or nationalist-extremist.

While primarily associated with Bulgaria, the term Ataka can appear in other contexts in different languages. In contemporary discourse, however, Ataka is most closely identified with the Bulgarian political movement and its ongoing role in debates over immigration, national identity, and Bulgaria’s relationship with Europe.