Population: 1990 estimate 8,989,172 1990 growth rate negative .35 percent 1989 population density eighty-one per square kilometer.

Languages: Official state language Bulgarian main national minority language Turkish.

Ethnic Groups: In 1991, Bulgarians (8ออออ5.3 percent), Turks (8.5 percent), Gypsies (2.6 percent), Macedonians (2.5 percent), Armenians (0.3 percent), Russians (0.2 percent).

Religion: In 1991 Bulgarian Orthodox (85 percent), Muslim (13 percent), Jewish (.8 percent), Roman Catholic (.5 percent). Significant increase in public worship and observance of religious holidays beginning 1990.

Health: In post-World War II era, state health care facilities became available to large part of population through polyclinic system, with all medical services free. In 1990 state control removed to promote diversity and specialization and reduce bureaucracy. Serious shortages of medical supplies, early 1990s.

Education and Literacy: Education compulsory between ages seven and sixteen. Complete literacy claimed 1990. Extensive growth in education system in post-World War II era, with rigidly Marxist ideological curriculum complete restructuring, modernization, and depoliticization program begun 1990.

Data as of June 1992